Counsels on Self-Identity

Counsel #12 — The Mind

Picture: Counsel #12 — The Mind CI 170.1

What we say to ourselves matters. Internal dialogue, or those thoughts that run unchecked in our minds, can build us up or break us down. When we constantly replay self-critical messages like “I’m not good enough,” or spiral into catastrophic thinking, we’re just further reinforcing a false identity that will ultimately damage our self-esteem. CI 170.2

Over time, these patterns can become so familiar that we don’t even question them. We begin expecting rejection, failure, or isolation, and will sometimes even subconsciously invite them. As Christians, we must understand that our mind is a battlefield — a spiritual warzone between God and Satan. What we allow into our minds plants seeds, so the first step in overcoming negative thoughts is knowing that not every thought is trustworthy. Scripture reminds us to take every thought captive and to filter our thinking through what is true, noble, right, and pure. This means filtering those harsh thoughts and replacing them with God’s truth. Retraining your mind takes time, but with the Holy Spirit’s guidance and empowerment, your confidence will grow from the inside out as your thought patterns shift.^[186] CI 170.3

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6 NIV CI 170.4

“Instead of suffering your mind to run in a channel of thought from which you will derive no benefit, you should be searching the Scriptures daily…” Ellen White in Counsels for the Church, p. 79 CI 170.5

Reflect: What’s one of Satan’s lies you keep believing about yourself, and what truth of God’s can replace it? CI 170.6