“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.” – Psalm 19:14

 

Renovating the Neighbourhood of Your Mind

Anne Lamott is a unique author who mixes spirituality with humour. She relies on Jesus and writes in a way that provides insight with a laugh. While I don’t agree with everything she says, her writing often contains valuable truths. For example, she once said, “My mind is like a bad neighborhood. I try not to go in there alone.” With one sentence she highlights a common struggle with our thoughts and the need for guidance.

 

Most of our lives happen in our minds. Our thoughts produce opinions, ideas, fears, loves, and insights, constantly running even when we sleep. Even though our thoughts shape our words and actions, they are often hidden from others. You can see my actions and expressions, but you can’t read my thoughts, and I can’t read yours. This privacy can cause concern.

 

Since our thoughts are personal, we often trust them too much. We tend to win imagined arguments in our heads and think our conclusions are correct. Left unchecked, our thoughts can lead us to mistaken beliefs. As Lamott points out, our minds can be like a bad neighbourhood—confusing and risky. Because our thoughts are private, we may feel alone and trapped by errors or lies. Anyone who has tried to convince someone of their worth knows how tough it is to change negative thoughts.

 

Thinking With God

But we don’t have to face this alone. There is a Companion Voice that can guide us through the darkness. God is with us in our hearts, souls, bodies, and minds. He understands our struggles. While our thoughts are private, we can invite God to join us in understanding them. This is essential. The Psalmist asked God to review his words and thoughts, and we should do the same.

 

We open our minds to God’s guidance through His Word. His truth corrects our errors and helps us think better. Paul reminded the Philippians to focus on what is true, honorable, and worthy of praise (Phil. 4:8,9). When we align our thoughts with Biblical truth, we thrive, and God’s peace will accompany us. Paul also taught that prayer invites God into our minds, helping us protect our hearts and thoughts (Phil. 4:6,7).

 

My Own Journey

This resonates with my own experience. I filled my mind with Biblical truths, studying and learning for years. While I could clearly see the impact of God’s Word, I still had stubborn, negative thoughts. It was through quiet, reflective prayer that God helped me work through my issues. This grace is available to all believers.

 

Don’t just think about God; think with Him. Ask Him to guide you. Remember, your thoughts are not private to Him; they can be directed. He will help you find the truth and protect you from wrong ideas. Most importantly, He will assure you that you are never alone and that you are loved completely. God’s Spirit will renew your thoughts and shape the Mind of Christ within you. So, as Anne suggests, don’t go through your mental challenges alone; invite Him to explore, renovate and renew your mind.

 

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6.