Proverbs 23:7
For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.
I’m reading a book right now about the effects negative thinking have on the human brain. When we dwell on thoughts that produce fear, hurt, anger and other negative emotions, our brain pattern grows like a dark tree. Every time we revisit the ideas, limbs are added to that tree.
I have studied the spiritual implications and applications of what is built when we choose to dwell in negative thought patterns. The spiritual terminology for this phenomenon is a stronghold. I understand the spiritual side, but to see the physiological damage of negative thinking is astounding.
Francis Frangipane describes strongholds in his book, The Three Battlegrounds, like this: “Wherever a stronghold exists, it is a demonically induced pattern of thinking. Specifically, it is a house made of thoughts, which has become a dwelling place for satanic activity.â€
Positive thoughts have the exact opposite effect on the brain. A beautiful white network emerges in the areas where there are strong positive memories and thought patterns. Comparing the differences between the two effects on the brain makes the need for positive change clear. We can choose to be held hostage by the bombardment of a constant stream of negativity, which causes mental scarring and demonic torment, or we can choose to surround ourselves with positive influences and peaceful environments that undergird and guide us to new possibilities. Which place would you like to live?
Now that we know what strongholds do to us, we have to identify how they get started and how to stop them!
It has been physiologically observed that when an individual replaces a negative thought with a positive one, their brain activity expands. It is not enough to just ignore those who hurt us or dismiss what has hurt us. To be free, and completely restored, we are instructed to bless those who curse us. It seems that the Word of God gives us the perfect way to apply the dynamite – DUNAMIS power, so wickedness is destroyed and abundant living is restored!
Let us meditate on the Word of God, and let it restore positive pathways to our patterns of thought. We truly become what we think!
Psalms 1:1-2
Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law, he meditates day and night.
