1-Year Bible Reading Series for Healthy Living (October: Mindset)

Welcome Back!  This month we will explore what the Bible teaches about several principles of Mindset.  

What do you do when you find yourself dealing with harmful thoughts or feelings that threaten to overtake your better senses?  Would you like to improve your abilities in considering your options and making decisions?  Are you in the midst of a particularly difficult life circumstance?  Would you like to have more confidence and hope for the future?

Seeking God’s direction through prayer and reading His Word are the best first steps you can take.  Scripture will ground you in truth, give you clarity, help you cope amid suffering, and give you assurance.

In talking about mindset, it is most productive to involve others in your journey?  Is there someone you can talk with this month about your thoughts?  If not, ask a church leader if there's a good group you could join where you can develop relationships.  [Don't have a church?  Check out:  6 Tips for Choosing the Right Church for You]

Are you ready to get started growing closer to God and improving your life?

Let’s go…

October - Mindset

So much of what happens in life is invisible to the eye.  One example of this is what takes place in the mind.  Long before a decision is expressed or an action is taken, a whole world of thoughts have been considered outside the view of onlookers.  

Most of us have either experienced or witnessed someone being painfully caught off guard by a loved one making a decision that has hurtful personal effects.  It is essential to know what is going on in your mind, to make it known to a few trusted people, and to encourage your loved ones to do the same.  None of us can go through life alone.  Trying to manage your mind on your own without the input from your Maker and from other grounded believers, will result in unnecessary turmoil and heartbreak.

God’s Word says to “set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.”  This month, let the Lord teach you and show you how to walk in His good ways.  Your life will be enriched beyond what you can imagine (Ephesians 3:20–21).

Week 1:  Truth

When it comes to mindset, it is imperative that the foundation of your thoughts be based on truth.  From there, you can focus and refocus amid daily decisions, circumstances, uncertainties, and emotions.  Truth is truth; it never changes - just like a compass that always come back to north.  Without this foundation, you will likely bend and morph to preserve your sense of acceptance from those around you or to fit in to the latest thoughts and perspectives of society.  The apostle Paul instructed believers to renew their minds rather than conform to societal pressures that dishonor God.

As you read the passages this week, allow God to ground you in truth.  He is the Author of all truth and will teach you His ways.

Week 2:  Clarity

Even when you know foundational truths, it can be challenging to discern what to do in specific situations when the Bible does not speak directly about the decision you’re trying to make.  That is why it is important to have wisdom.  Without wisdom, confusion can easily arise and complicate matters.  

But, God is not the God of confusion.  Wisdom provides the clarity needed to apply the truths and principles of God in everyday decisions - whether big or small.  Best of all, wisdom is available to you!  He gives it generously to all who ask!  He knows what you need and can give it through His Word, prayer, and wise counsel.

In this week’s Scriptures, take delight in reflecting on the power of wisdom.  Visualize the many benefits of the clarity God will give you through putting His instructions into practice.   

Week 3:  Depression & Suffering

In life, many hardships and losses can be suffered.  As Jesus said, “in this world you will have trouble.”  Sometimes, suffering can involve depression.  Paul, Moses, Naomi, Jeremiah, Job, Elijah, David, and Jesus all experienced periods of despair.  Learning about the experiences of others can help alleviate feelings of being alone; and reading the promises of God can encourage and give you peace. 

The Bible readings this week give many reassurances that God is in control and that He will provide comfort and deliverance amid suffering.

Week 4+:  Confidence & Hope

Because of Jesus, you can go directly to God in prayer about all of your concerns.  He knows and cares about every detail of your life (Matthew 10:30-31), has a good plan for you, and has the power to provide everything that is needed in every situation.  Whatever you are facing, you can trust God to lovingly carry you through it.

As you read these Scriptures, take time to honestly share your grief, fears, doubts, and concerns with Him.  He is your loving heavenly Father who will minister to your needs.

Where to Go From Here

Emptying your mind, as some may purport, is not functional - nor is it even possible.  The mind will always have something in it.  Rather, one powerful thing you can do is to be intentional about what you choose to watch and read. 

GIGO (garbage in, garbage out), a term first used in computer science, is befitting as it applies to life.  Meditating on God's Word will fill your mind with healthy thoughts and clear out the garbage.  

By seeking truth through God's Word, receiving wisdom and clarity, and grounding yourself in the promises and assurances of God, you will find an increasing level of freedom from harmful thoughts that can wreak havoc.

Was there a particular reading this month that was especially enlightening or encouraging?  Share it with us in the Comment section below!

Join me again in November when we will read about Relationships.  Being that the greatest commandments of God are to love Him and to love others, He has oodles to say about this core element of life.  

See you tomorrow!

Articles in this series: 

• January - Fitness
• February - Sleep & Rest
• March - Nutrition
• April - Stress Management
• May - Recreation
• June - Family
• July - Work
• August - Faith
• September - Finances
• October - Mindset
• November - Relationships
• December - Making Plans

Would you like to read more about historical figures in the Bible that dealt with depression? 

Check out these articles:

1. Which Bible Characters Struggled with Depression
2. 7 Bible Figures Who Struggled with Depression

Do you want to learn more about the Bible or how to become a Christian?

Check out these articles:

1. Bible Recap 101: Your Essential Guide to the Bible's Core Storyline
2. How to Become a Christian in 2 Life-Saving Steps

Are you looking for a church? Check out these articles:

1. 3 Essential Beliefs All Christian Churches Share
2. 6 Tips for Choosing the Right Church For You