Our Freedom to Think

Someone once said, “I don’t believe in the power of positive thinking, but I do believe in the power of thinking.” I do too.  

Consider the ability our thinking has to shape how we think about ourselves, others, our experiences and the world at large. 

How we think about our daily experiences, our relationships with others and the world at large is unique to us. Tuning into how and what we think gives us the power to continue thinking along that same vein or gives us the power to change how we think about something. 

A few years ago I purchased Dr. Caroline Leaf’s book, “Switch On Your Brain Every Day.” Now, I read one of her 365 Brainy Tips every morning. She gives a Bible verse, mentions a scientific idea and then gives a dose of practical application.  

A few days ago I read about neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity is our brain’s ability to build new pathways. It can work for us or it can work against us depending on what we think about.

Dr. Leaf says that “…Whatever we think about the most will grow.” This is such a simple, yet keen statement that anyone, including me, can understand. 

Whatever I think about is what produces my attitudes, perspective, and points of view. I have the freedom to worry, be anxious or fretful. I also have the freedom to change my mind and think on love, joy, and peace.

What changes our mind? What causes us to shift our way of thinking? This phenomenon of changing our mind is different for everyone. 

My thinking shifts the more I recondition my mind with the Truth. For instance, believing that God is for me and not against me gives me courage.

Since God is for me, how can I lose? I’ve already been given everything I need to live, now all I need to do is live like I’ve got everything I need. 

When perilous times come, continuing to believe that God is still for me and not against me keeps my panic at bay.  

Seems simple? It kind of is. Once you get the hang of it and make it a habit, this phenomenon of renewing our mind with Truth becomes a new pathway for our thoughts and for our actions. 

Why Bother?

Why bother thinking about our freedom to think? “Whatever we think about the most will grow,” and whatever we are growing determines where we’re going.