Mind Binding Spirits (as I like to call them self-defeating thoughts): For anyone that has read Joyce Meyers's "Battlefield of the Mind" you have heard this before. While doing my morning devotional this was the title. This one got me thinking (again) about the weapons the devil uses to stop you from walking in your calling. "I'm not smart enough", "I'm not strong enough", "Who will listen to what I have to say." And in today's world, "I don't have the followers", I don't have enough likes." What are some of the mind-binding spirits that have so you from believing in the vision God gave you?
How do we develop these thoughts? These thoughts come from the things we allow to affect and guide us, whether consciously or subconsciously. These things come from our upbringing, society, social media, and even our relationships. We must be mindful of the things we allow to influence and impact our thoughts. The word states in Proverbs 4:23 to “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” In Hebrew, the heart is the location of knowledge and also the preconscious source of decisions. In it lies who you truly are, it is the place of your worldview and ultimately how you make your decisions. That is powerful! It is understandable why God’s word would instruct us to God our hearts. For our heart’s thoughts will impact our decisions.
So, how do we apply this information to our lives? Simple we remain mindful of the things we let influence us. I know easier said than done right . Try taking time at the beginning of your day, five minutes will do. Visualize your day, who you may come in contact with, what you may read or watch on TV etc. Keep it positive and set a goal for how you want your day to go. Then at the end of your day take another five minutes to reflect on how your day went. Don’t beat yourself up about what “didn’t” go your way. Simply reflect and be aware of your thoughts throughout the day. This awareness will help you to slowly change your negative thoughts and outlooks. Remember, we are running a marathon in life, not a sprint so be patient with yourself.