Mind Traps

We all go through times of trial and life can be frustrating, to say the least, but remembering to keep a "growth mindset", as Peta Bates states in her article of the same name, is very helpful (Bates, 2016). I will use myself as an example, if I may. I am currently recovering from COVID pneumonia, I had a prolonged illness of the same symptomatic type last year for several months and here I am again almost two months in. Now I am sharing that to say this, often when we are in physical, emotional, or spiritual distress we forget to maintain control of our thoughts and words. This is a very important part of moving forward in faith. I too have been guilty of losing control and allowing things to get the best of me, but The Word of God says, "We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ" II Corinthians 10:5 (New American Standard Bible, 1995). We are meant to control our thoughts, easier said than done but this is possible, with Christ all things are possible.

(Photo Credit, Shutterstock)

See, in order to train your mind to think positive thoughts, one must first identify the negative thought patterns that you have a habit of repeating. Writing them down is best. Much the way Bates uses this thought process in her classroom, expectations must be set, even if you are doing this for yourself and not for others. Once you have identified the negative thought patterns, write out the opposing positive thought to replace it. There is a tie to our memory and writing, I was once told that we have a trigger in our thumb to aid in memory and over the years I have written things that I need to learn often. I used this method with my sons as well. Once you have determined the replacement, it is actually "setting your mind" to recognize the input that needs to be replaced and replacing it every time it presents itself. Just as Ms. Bates did in her classroom, she focused on the positive. One of the examples she used was, "I made a mistake" would change to "Mistakes help me learn". She reports fear as a base for many of the children not wanting to try at first but this reprogramming makes the fearful mistake a part of the journey, one now knows what is not right, and can grow in that by doing it differently next time. What a freeing thought.

Now, once the habit is formed to identify the negative thoughts one will start to look at the positive side of every event and find it easier to be thankful for the good things. For instance, I know that God has been using this time at home to draw me closer to him, to rest, learn to trust in Him more, to listen, and to move into things that He has been speaking to me about. I am thankful for all of that because I am growing, even though sometimes growing pains hurt, the outcome is maturity.

I will admit feeling frustrated when one thing after another happens, big things, little things, overwhelming things, that has been the last year for sure, but I see God working. He has miraculously met my needs multiple times. He has revealed to me who should and should not be in my life and moved some people out of my inner circle. Times of trial can do that. He has had prayer warriors contact me that are not aware that I am sick and the prayer has been invaluable. I see His hand at work and I am in awe.

As for the impact of my mindset on others, that is huge. It affects my sons, those I talk to, and those I pray with. When I am looking for the blessing in the situation, expecting healing, speaking life to myself and to others it brings light to my world and to theirs. I have fallen short on this at times, I will admit. I am grateful to have this reminder to be more purposeful about my thoughts, words, and the way I interpret things that are happening. By doing this one does not exist to trudge through one problem to the next, but finds peace, hope, and joy in the journey. That to me is flourishing.

I leave you with this, "And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus", Philippians 4:7 (NASB 1995). Draw close to Him and He will show you the more excellent way.

In His Love,

Charissa :)

By the way try to check out the article by Peta Bates referenced below, it's a great read.

References

Bates, P.(2016). Growth Mindset. Access (10300159), 30 (4), 28-31. Retrieved from Bates, P. (2016). Growth mindset. Access (10300155), 30(4), 28-31. Retrieved from https://search-ebscohost-com.ezproxy.ccu.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=lih&AN=119655980&site=eds-live

YouVersion. (1995, 05 10). New American Standard Bible. The Lockman Foundation.