Tortured thinking

5For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. 8So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God.    Romans 8:5-8  NKJV

Regarding these verses, Casey Treat says, 'When your mind agrees with your Spirit, you're spiritually minded. However, when it agrees with your flesh, you are carnally minded'

Our minds can play tricks on us quite a lot leaving us to believe what is not there. A person can believe that they are the subject of gossip and get themselves so wound up on this that it poisons their mind and either makes them believe that it is true or, that they need to get away from the situation they are in. They may see a couple of people talking in a corner and notice that one of them glances over at them. Straightaway, they may believe that this couple are gossiping about them. Where, this could be true, it is more likely to be just a fleeting glance that means nothing. It could also be complimentary.

Our minds can also play tricks on us about things that happen. What we see or hear, may not be true but, if we receive this into our hearts, it can seem that way so much that we can begin to believe it. It can be anything but if not dealt with quickly it can lead to tortured thinking and this can lead to anger, sleepless nights or even mental heath issues because there is no resolution to this torture.

Paul refers to our thoughts in Romans 12:2 'And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.' I like the way Philips New Testament quotes this verse, 'Don't let the world squeeze you into its mould'  When you consider this, if we allow it to, the world does this. Therefore we need to take action, but how?

Turn things around that, instead of seeing things as negative, you see them as positive - a challenge. Instead of chores, see them as blessings. Actually, position yourself to be blessed instead of robbed. You can think your way into victory or defeat; joy or sorrow and life or death, so begin to see things differently - God's way. 

The results of tortured thinking is the beginning of a stronghold the devil places on us. Break that stronghold now: '3For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.  4For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds,  5casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ'

                                                                              2 Corinthians 10:3-5

The only defence mechanism you will ever need is Jesus Christ.

Copyright 2025 Grahame Howard. 

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now:

Lord Jesus, I have sinned. I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today. 

In Jesus' Name. Amen'

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