The stability of Christians is largely predicated on the biblical content and continuity of their thinking. It is not only what they think, but what they continue to think that provides stability in their souls. When God’s Word—divine viewpoint—flows through their daily thoughts, it enables them to frame life from a divine perspective and respond properly from a position of strength. The more Christians study, memorize, and apply God’s Word, the greater the benefits they will experience in their walk of faith. Achieving this requires positive volition, a commitment to learning, and a willingness to live as obedient-to-the-Word Christians.
Because we live in a fallen world, it’s inevitable that we will face difficulties. When fears arise—and they will—God desires that we look to Him in faith, for “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psa 46:1). Solomon wrote, “Do not be afraid of sudden fear…for the LORD will be your confidence” (Prov 3:25-26). God said, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand” (Isa 41:10). God’s Word is always true because He is true, for “He cannot lie” (Heb 6:18). As Scripture declares, “God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind. Has He said, and will He not do it? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?” (Num 23:19). Yes, God will keep His Word! He has perfect integrity and always fulfills His promises. Be encouraged, for “God is for us” (Rom 8:31) and has promised, “I will never leave you or forsake you” (Heb 13:5). Therefore, “Trust in the LORD always, for the LORD GOD is the eternal Rock” (Isa 26:4).
Biblically, there will be times when it’s God’s will that you face hardships, such as when Joseph was sold into slavery (Gen 37:23-36; Psa 105:17-19), or Paul suffered as a minister for Christ (2 Cor 11:23-27). During those times of providential difficulty, God wants you to trust that He’s in control of the circumstances of your life and is directing the outcome for good, like He did with Joseph (Gen 45:5, 7, 50:20). Scripture states, “We know God works all things together for good to those who love Him, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Rom 8:28). Therefore, believers are instructed, “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 your paths straight” (Prov 3:5-6). It is God’s will that you trust His Word and walk by faith, to “Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him” (Psa 37:7), and “cast all our anxiety on Him, because He cares for you” (1 Pet 5:7), and “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God” (Phil 4:6). If you do this, then “the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Phil 4:7).
Interestingly, the phrase “do not fear” or similar commands like “fear not” appears in the Bible approximately 365 times (depending on the translation). The repeated encouragement not to fear underscores God’s sovereignty, faithfulness, and care for His people in every circumstance. Failure to live by faith and advance to spiritual maturity means the believer is not capitalizing on the blessings and resources God has provided.
Discipline of mind—controlling your thoughts—is vital to your walk of faith, for what you focus on shapes your mental and emotional state. Isaiah wrote, “The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in You” (Isa 26:3). Jeremiah said, “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD and whose trust is the LORD” (Jer 17:7). In times of trouble, you can take refuge in God, for “The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble, and He knows those who take refuge in Him” (Nah 1:7). As God’s child, you are called to “take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ” (2 Cor 10:5), and to “set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth” (Col 3:2). If you know and practice these things, you’ll know the peace that comes from the Lord and the walk of faith.
In summary, the stability of your Christian life hinges largely on a disciplined mind that is shaped by God’s Word and a steadfast trust in His promises (Isa 26:3; Prov 3:5-6). By continually thinking on Scripture (Psa 1:2-3; Isa 55:8-9), and walking by faith in God and His Word (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38; 11:6), you can navigate life’s challenges with divine perspective. God calls you to rest in His care (Psa 37:7), and to cast your worries on Him (1 Pet 5:7). Through His Word, He provides the wisdom, encouragement, and promises you need to remain stable and strong in the midst of trials (Psa 119:105; 2 Tim 3:16-17). As your thoughts and actions align with God’s Word, you will experience His peace (John 16:33), which guards your heart and enables you to walk faithfully in a fallen world (Phil 4:6-7).
Dr. Steven R. Cook
If this article has enriched your understanding and walk with Christ, and you feel led to support my ministry, your generosity is greatly appreciated. Your gifts enable me to continue sharing the gospel of grace and providing in-depth biblical teachings. Thank you for partnering with me in this mission.
Related Articles:
- Free Grace Salvation
- The Spiritual Life and the Walk of Faith
- Mastering Focus as We Walk by Faith
- Knowing and Doing the Will of God
- God Uses Imperfect People
- The Life of Faith
- The Righteous Lifestyle of the Believer
- Walking Worthy of God’s Call to Service
- When God Gives Us a Test
- The Faithfulness of the Lord
- Bible Promises that Strengthen our Faith
- Walking with God
—
4 thoughts on “Cultivating a Biblical Mind”