“We can not solve our problems with the same level of thinking that created them” Albert Einstein.
Many people who have had therapy will recognise the general principle of CBT which says that our thoughts affect our mood which in turn affects our behaviour. In other words, the way we think will affect our behaviour and how we react to situations around us.
This is something Paul recognised in the Bible. He advised us to “take captive every thought” (2 Corinthians 10:15). Often we find ourselves in difficult situations, thinking ‘I can’t deal with this’ or ‘this problem is too big’, so we get ourselves in a defeated mood before we’ve even started.
As a Christian I’ve found the best way to take these thoughts captive and change how I think about a situation is to read what the Bible says about it. Verses such as “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”, help when I’m feeling weak and “give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you”, for when I’m feeling stressed. In this way I can focus on the good things I have in God and find strength and encouragement to carry on.
If you’re dealing with something at the moment that seems too much for you, try thinking about it differently. Have a look at what the Bible says about your situation, it might be what you need to help change your perspective of it.
Bryn Joslin – KLCF Youth Leader