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There is a real need for us to take care of our bodies. The Bible teaches that we are to “glorify God” in our bodies, and that we are to present our bodies as living sacrifices to God (1 Corinthians 6:20; Romans 12:1). Both of these passages enjoin upon us the responsibility to do what we can to maintain healthy bodies.
The Bible also teaches us to maintain healthy, sound minds. Paul wrote, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7). One who has a sound mind has good judgment, a sensible mind, and is able to think soberly and clearly.
A sound mind leads to a life of balance and self-control. All these things are essential to the Christian life, so maintaining a healthy mind should be important to us all.
We need to be aware that our greatest enemy, Satan, wants to prevent us from having a healthy mind. Scripture warns: “But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ” (2 Corinthians 11:3). Satan tricked and deceived Eve in the Garden, and he still wants to corrupt and confuse our minds today. Notice in the verse just cited that Satan wants to corrupt our “minds.” He knows that if he can get control of our minds, our actions will soon follow where our minds lead (cf. Proverbs 4:23).
One way Satan may prevent us from having a healthy mind is through fear. Since “God hath not given us the spirit of fear” (2 Timothy 1:7), fear must be from Satan. Fear may disturb our minds in many ways and rob us of peace. Satan wants us to fear that we are capable of living a faithful and dedicated Christian life. This fear may be re-enforced by memories of past failures and sins. Satan knows that if we dwell on past mistakes we will not have the courage and confidence to live for Christ in the present. The fear of being rejected or betrayed may dominate one’s thinking and prevent a sound mind. The fear of health problems, growing old, or the fear of dying may prevent a sound mind. Satan can fill our minds with so many lies about ourselves, our sins, and our security that we find ourselves confused, unsettled, and distracted.
However, God has given us “truth” in His Word to dispel the distortions and lies of the devil. Jesus said, “Thy word is truth” (John 17:17). Regardless of our present circumstances, problems, temptations, or challenges the God who gave us His truth can give us clarity and a sound mind.
Mark Lindley
Chapman church of Christ
Ripley, MS