June 24th

June 24th      

What we think about changes the structure of our brain. Prayer changes the structure of our brain. How we handle tough circumstances changes the structure of our brain and prepares us for handling future stressors. All of this makes me wonder and read the Words and instructions of Jesus in a different light. Sometimes we forget that when God tells us something it often has more than one effect; so much goes on “behind the scenes” sometimes seemingly unrelated if even noticed by us at all. We can get so focused on taking things at face value that we don’t recognize what is going on behind the scenes or we are totally unaware of the other effects that our words, actions, and prayers are having. Remember God is so much more complex than we are and He is undoubtedly always accomplishing much more than the obvious.

So after reading this research about the brain, I decided to read back through the sermon on the mount with that in mind. At first these passages may seem just to be a bunch of advice on how to behave, but there is more to it on a spiritual AND physical level. When we behave the way Jesus advises us, in addition to the spiritual benefits, we also experience good changes in our brain structure and pathways.

Matthew 5:27-30 You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.

We learned how our brain function and structure improves when we pray and when we think about the good things. Well, the opposite happens too. When we think negative or inappropriate thoughts, the pathways in our brain for that sin are activated as if we had just actually done those particular things. In fact, when those pathways are repeatedly activated it makes them stronger and that will make it even easier to not only have those thoughts again, but also to actually carry out those acts in person at some point. So lust/ adultery share a pathway and reinforce each other. So do anger, murder and hatred. So bottom-line is that it is best to steer clear of all of that completely. 

Matthew 5:38-40 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles.

Matthew 5:43-44 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,

When we do the unexpected in the face of adversity or persecution it strengthens the good pathways in our brain which further makes us able to deal with it better next time. When we do good to those who persecute us, we turn the situation into an opportunity for generosity. We are GIVING them grace when we don’t retaliate or become angry; and we are turning it into a positive experience that can be good for us instead of bad for us. How is that? Well, generosity activates the brain pathways that are responsible for joy and wellbeing and resilience. So when we give them grace we are actually setting ourselves up for future joy and success. So God can work in the situation spiritually and we benefit physically as well. See how intertwined and interconnected the body is with the spiritual? No wonder the body is included in the process of sanctification.

1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.

Jesus, thank you for designing me to have the possibility to benefit from the negative things that happen in my life instead of just painful results. Help me to remember this and use it properly. Help me to trust you enough to allow you to do what needs to be done and let you handle the results. Help me to allow you Holy Spirit to use those circumstances to do what is best in me. Thank you for your perfect love!