2 Corinthians 10: 4-6; Psalms 51: 10-12
The mind is the powerhouse of the soul; through it we perceive, analyze, and interpret things. Everything we do, create, pursue, and engage in first starts in the mind. An architect will concur that the blueprint (the plan) is first born in the mind prior to creation. Likewise, a scientist will confirm that the greatest inventions or discoveries of our times first happened in the mind. So – through the mind, ideas are formed, dreams are born, and visions are conceived
The mind controls how we see and perceive things; and most times our interpretations, and beliefs are all influenced by the power of the mind. Thus our mind shapes our beliefs, values, and worldviews. The conclusion (or opinion) on whether something is bad, good, ugly, beautiful, etc. is a function of the thoughts of the heart, and happens through the lens of the mind.
Unfortunately, the devil also recognizes the power of the human mind; and that is why many of his onslaughts are targeted on the mind! If the devil can contaminate our thoughts, or cripple our minds, he has our whole being under his control! And this is how satan was able to conquer Eve in the garden, he infused Eve’s mind with thoughts of doubt, and wrong perspectives; sadly though, he still does that today!
The Bible says as a man thinks, so is he. For instance, if you perceive yourself as a failure, then you’ll begin to walk, act, and talk with the mindset of a failure. And that’s the same for everything – rich, poor, ugly, beautiful, etc., Our minds can trick us into believing something that is either untrue or unreal; and that is why this article is titled ‘mind games’ – because it depicts the manipulative nature of the mind sometimes.
It is easy to underrate the power of the human mind. It is possible to underestimate the far-reaching consequences of a negative thought. It is dangerous to neglect the influence of the human mind on our decisions, and actions. No wonder the Bible says to guide our minds with all diligence for out of it are the issues of life (Proverbs 4: 23). We have to be deliberate with our mind – taking control of its thought, deliberation, contemplation, introspection, and attention.
There is no area we have as much problem as the human mind – it is the gateway to all emotions (worry, fear, anger, anxiety, etc.). But thank God we don’t have to be subject to these manipulative thoughts either. The Bible encourages us to refute every contrary argument, and bring every thought to the obedience of God’s word! We need to constantly cleanse our mind with the truth of God’s word, so that our perspectives, ideas, dreams, and visions, are aligned with God’s.
Folks, we have to be intentional with our thoughts. Do not fall victim to mind games!