Skip the popularity contest and win the battle for your mind
The human mind is a complex landscape, often characterised by a constant struggle between positive and negative thoughts. This internal battleground can significantly impact our emotional well-being, decision-making, and overall sense of self. In today’s fast-paced world, our minds are bombarded with negativity. From constant news cycles to social media pressures, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and lose sight of peace. For many, their eyes are fixed only on that which can be seen naturally. Colossians 3 verse 2 tells us, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Those who are in Christ should know that faith in God offers powerful tools to navigate these inner battles.
As concerns unbelievers, the Word of God in 2 Corinthian 3-4 says, “If our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. In their case, the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.” (NIV). It is sad for them, for they have no true hope unless they allow their minds to be renewed in Christ.
THE ENEMIES ARE WITHIN
The battlefield of the mind is populated by a variety of adversaries. Negative thought patterns, including self-doubt, anxiety, worry, and fear, are formidable foes. These persistent voices can chip away at our confidence, leading to feelings of inadequacy and paralysis. Additionally, external pressures like societal expectations, social media comparisons, and negative experiences can exacerbate these internal struggles, creating an unnerving enemy force. Denial of what is going on in the mind does not make the voices stop. What we must do is be aware that an internal battle is at hand.
AWARENESS SETS YOU UP FOR VICTORY
The first step in conquering the battlefield of the mind is becoming aware of the ongoing struggle. By recognising negative thought patterns and their triggers, we can begin to challenge them. It would be okay to ignore the battle within if this fight only stayed there. However, the battle within creeps into our daily living and affects how we behave, causing us to have issues with ourselves and with others.
Awareness is key in order for us to maintain meaningful personal and professional relationships. Not only that, but if there is a battle within, we are first at war with ourselves, which means we have no peace with ourselves. If we have no personal peace, it makes it more difficult to offer or receive peace. To become truly aware of our inner struggles, we must be conscious of who we are, according to God. It is only in this way that we will be able to recognise when we are going against the grain of our Godly characteristics. Keep in mind that we are made in the image and likeness of God.
ABIDE IN GOD AND HE WILL ABIDE IN YOU
To remain in our state of Godliness, we must stay connected to God. He is the giver of all good things, including peace. John 15:4-5 says, “Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” (NIV) Whether through prayer, meditation on scripture, or spending time in praise and worship, faith in God offers a sense of purpose and belonging. It reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles. The path to connecting with God is personal. Though we might go to church and connect with other Believers, God requires a one-on-one relationship with all of His children. However, connecting with God isn’t just about personal well-being; it can also inspire compassion and service to others.
STRATEGIES FOR INNER PEACE
Conquering the battlefield of the mind is not a one-time victory. It requires ongoing effort and discipline. Here are some additional tips for building your inner strength:
- Surround yourself with Godliness/positivity: Seek out Godly positive influences and supportive communities. Spend time with people who are abiding in God and can uplift you, and believe in your potential.
- Limit negative influences: Minimise exposure to sources of negativity, such as toxic relationships or social media feeds that promote unrealistic comparisons and self-doubt.
- Develop healthy habits: Prioritising good sleep, nutritious meals, and regular exercise strengthens your mental and physical resilience, making you better equipped to handle challenges.
- Seek help when needed: There is no shame in seeking professional help for life’s challenges, whatever their nature: spiritual, mental, emotional, financial, physical, etc.
FAIL THE POPULARITY CONTEST AND STILL WIN
The world might shower praise on a carefully-curated online persona or a fleeting trend, but true victory lies in conquering the battlefield within. You can lose the popularity contest, the race for the most likes or the trendiest outfit, but by challenging your own negativity and nurturing your authentic self with the Word of God, He enables you to win the war for your own mind. This internal victory fosters genuine peace within, confidence, and a sense of self-worth far more enduring than fleeting external validation.
“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” Isaiah 26:3
“Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalm 139:23-24
“Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” 2 Cor 10:5
Orlease King is author of the book, ‘Making Your Way to God.’ Contact her at freedomcomerain@gmail.com