Mind, Character, and Personality -- Study Guide

The Study Guide

There are two sources of “principles of psychology.” “The true principles of psychology are found in the Holy Scriptures,” says Ellen White (MLT 176). But Satan has been studying the human mind for thousands of years and uses false theories of the mind to further his cause and divert us from the truth. The last great struggle will be a battle for minds. The messenger of the Lord says, “I have been shown that we must be guarded on every side, and perseveringly resist the insinuations and devices of Satan. He has transformed himself into an angel of light, and is deceiving and leading thousands captive. The advantages he takes of the science of the human mind are tremendous” (MYP 57). MCP-SG 3.1

There are many definitions of psychology. One says it is “the science of mental life.” Another says it is “the study of behavior.” The term “psychology” derives from two words meaning “the study of the soul.” How meaningful to a Christian! The mind is the focal point of such a study. “The mind controls the whole man. All our actions, good or bad, have their source in the mind. It is the mind that worships God, and allies us to heavenly beings. . . . All the physical organs are the servants of the mind, and the nerves are the messengers that transmit its orders to every part of the body, guiding the motions of the living machinery” (FE 426). MCP-SG 3.2

As Satan seeks control of the mind, it is important to study God’s laws of the mind and become informed in the best use of the mind and how to fortify it against the attacks of the enemy of souls. The apostle Paul says we are to bring “into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5). MCP-SG 3.3

This compilation from the pen of Ellen White reemphasizes the significance that God places upon our minds as instruments by which we not only control our bodies but develop character in the fear of the Lord. With minds to reason and through which God can communicate to us, we are responsible to Him, both to heed His will and to cooperate with Him in maintaining the proper relation between mind and body. MCP-SG 3.4

The Ellen G. White Estate MCP-SG 3.5