My coaching client was speaking negatively about herself. I call this negative self-talk. I suggested that she needed to take her thoughts captive in order to stay connected to the woman God created her to be. I was referring to Paul’s letter to the Corinthians where he says,
We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ, 2 Corinthians 10:5
My client’s response was, “I know! But how do I do that?”
If we want to be transformed by the renewal of our minds, (Romans 12:2) we must develop habits that recognize destructive thoughts and replace them with God’s truths—in other words, take our negative thoughts captive.
I offer a few practical suggestions to help you take your thoughts captive.
Read your Bible daily. Schedule and take the time to digest God’s word so that it is easily accessible in your mind.
Make a note whenever you come across a verse that reminds you of who God created you to be. Literally make a note on your phone, tablet, or computer—any device that is handy most of the time. When you recognize that you are thinking destructive thoughts about your identity and purpose, check those notes to remind yourself of who God says you are.
Write out the verses on sticky notes and post them where you see them. Yes, this may seem a little old school, but sometimes old school works! Post on your refrigerator, your bathroom mirror, your dashboard, or inside your desk drawer. They will help remind you of who God created you to be.
These three practical and concrete methods will help you take your thoughts captive. Try them and see which works better for you.
As you take your thoughts captive, you replace old destructive neural pathways with God’s truth that will assist you to soar as who He created you to be. Hallelujah!