For our own good mental health it’s essential that we take control of the thoughts we focus on, paying specific attention to our self-talk. Thinking unhealthy & negative thoughts can shape us into the person we will become that may eventually determine our actions.
What can Christians do to practice thinking healthy thoughts?
Cleaning Up Our Thought Life – Reading our bible daily helps to transform our thought life with the renewing of our minds. This happens as we meditate on the words in the bible, we begin to think healthy thoughts that reflect on God’s Truth. Then we apply that knowledge to our lives. We are also to take every thought captive.
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to discern what is the good, pleasing and perfect will of God. For by the grace given me I say to every one of you:” Romans 12:2
“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5
Watch Our Words – Our words have the power to build us up or tear us down, to give life and to destroy. We need to watch the words that come out of our mouths. Before you speak check if what we are about to say is going to be said in truth or love. Ask yourself if what you’re about to say is kind and merciful or is it going to have a destructive effect? Choose to communicate positively to others at all times.
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” Proverbs 18:21
Meditate – Think deeply about God and what our Almighty God has done for you through Jesus Christ and develop a heart of Gratitude.
“May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.” Psalm 19:14
Practice thanking God – for all the good things he’s done in your life.
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Prayer & Repentance – God is approachable and he also knows everything about you already. He seeks to have a relationship with you and loves you despite of your sin. Repent of your sins and ask His forgiveness communicating with Him daily.
“I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Luke 5:32
Express your own anger productively – It’s natural to feel anger when we are upset, feel threatened or have been mistreated. Rather than bursting out in destructive expressions of anger, we need to take control by calming down before responding to make sure that we don’t sin when we are angry.
“In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry,” Ephesians 4:26
Rethink Toxic Influences – We are all influenced by those around us and by those in our inner circles. The relationship we have with others matter. Be seriously selective about who and what we allow to influence our lives.
Be intentional about building good and healthy relationships with others.
aifc Admin
Sources
Crosswalk – 10 Way To Detoxify your Soul
The bible Gateway
Where to Find Help
Talk to your doctor if you find it difficult to control your thought life.
Visit CCAA to search for a Christian counsellor near you.
Visit ACA to search for a counsellor near you.
Free 24/7 Counselling Services
Lifeline on 13 11 14
Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36
Headspace on 1800 650 890
Studying at aifc
Have you thought about counselling? It’s a great opportunity to learn how you can extend God’s love and grace to the hurting out in the community.
For those who would like to Enrol in aifc’s accredited Christian counselling courses we have two intakes per year for courses commencing around the following months:
- At The beginning of each year in February.
- Mid-Year courses commence in July.
Enrolments open approximately 3 months prior the courses commencing. Enquire Now by filling out the form with your details to receive course information by email.
Note: A Masters course in Christian counselling will be introduced in 2018.
Contact aifc Monday to Friday from 9am – 5pm with your enquiries on 6242 5111 or toll free on 1300 721 397
Have you thought about becoming a qualified counsellor? It’s a great opportunity to learn how you can extend God's love and grace to the hurting out in the community.
For those who would like to enrol in aifc’s accredited Christian counselling courses we have two intakes per year for courses commencing around the following months:
Enrolment Season - opens approximately 2 months prior to our courses commencing. Enrol online here during our enrolment season.
We also offer two modes of study:
A Master of Counselling course was introduced in 2018.