Directing Our Thoughts
The battle of recovery is one that begins in our hearts and minds. In this blog, I would like to look at the idea of renewing our minds and experiencing the transformative work of the gospel in our thought life. The idea of directing our thoughts begins with the Holy Spirit’s renewal of our mind, leading us on a path to stop conforming to the thought patterns of the world.
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2
One of the main things given to us in this battle for our thoughts is the armor of God. It is essential for us to continuously cloth ourselves with the armor of God.
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.” Ephesians 6:10-11
Armed with God’s armor, through the power of the Holy Spirit, we are able to become transformed and stand against the weapons that encamp within our minds with eternal refuge in God.
“God is our refuge and strength, A very ready help in trouble.” Psalms 46:1.
On a neurological level, actions are governed by a synaptic connection that transmits communication between our neurons and myocytes. This simply means that our brain communicates with the body by placing thought into action. Reason is the cognitive sensory that lies between thought and action thus giving life and direction to our movement. As those who have been transformed by the Gospel, our reason is influenced by the Holy Spirit, leading to actions that seek to honor God.
An example of directing our thoughts to honor God can be found in the Transformation to Recovery Biblical counseling goal that states, “Our ultimate goal is not sobriety. We focus on building a gospel foundation so that men and women can experience new life through Jesus Christ. Sobriety will naturally follow.” Our goal is to be refined by the power of the Holy Spirit renewing our minds in the Word of God.
John Calvin, a 15th century theologian addresses this thought, “We have given priority to doctrine, which contains our religion, since it establishes our salvation. But in order for doctrine to be fruitful to us, it must overflow into our hearts, spread into our daily routines, and truly transform us within.” The goal is a transformed life that experiences the new creation not just simply sobriety over substances.
“Therefore if anyone is in Christ, this person is a new creation; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.” 2 Corinthians 5:17.
We are directing our thoughts by the power of the Holy Spirit. We avoid the temporal while becoming subjective to the eternal only with the strength that God provides. Left to ourselves, we may settle for the goal of just abstinence from addiction to substances. But ultimately that will fail because real transformation only comes with receiving new life in Christ and being transformed into a new creation. Then comes the benefit of gaining a sober mind. This side of Heaven, the state of having a sober mind will always be an active battle. But as Christians we have a great hope. For those who are Christ’s redeemed, there is coming a day soon when we will no longer experience the temptation of sin as we experience eternal life with Christ.
“Do not sell yourself short by believing the lies of Satan and worldly wisdom that merely want you to ‘stay clean and sober’ while on this earth with no hope for eternal life. God wants you to have a higher goal of worshiping Him alone because when you succeed in that goal, you will receive both heaven and earth.” The Heart of Addiction, Mark E. Shaw
While many focus on staying clean and sober one day at a time, they may not know the value of having their minds renewed in the light of Christ. Our thoughts must be directed through the heart towards Christ. Minister Glenn Wilson, the facilitator of the TTR New Life Recovery Meeting, says, “We are focusing on honoring God with our lifestyle.” Our lifestyles shall reflect the mind of Christ by directing our thoughts through the gospel of Jesus Christ. Therefore, becoming free indeed!
“So if the Son sets you free, you really will be free.” John 8:36
John K Carlson
Executive Director, Transformation to Recovery