Dear Mentor, How do I stop my thoughts from spiraling?
When My Thoughts Take Over
“You keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”
~ Isaiah 26:3
Dear Christian Mentor,
I constantly battle negative thoughts about myself. These thoughts about myself can cause me to give up when things aren’t going well or when I feel like I am failing. Worry can lead me to try to control situations or people so that nothing bad happens. Fear can paralyze me, keeping me from trying something new or pursuing opportunities God may be placing before me. When I allow my thoughts to spiral into negativity, I am letting my thoughts—not God—lead and guide my decisions and choices.
Dear Mentee,
Dealing with negative thoughts—often self-critical, pessimistic, or anxious—can be one of the most challenging aspects of our lives. From the moment we are born, we are exposed to both positive and negative influences. As we grow, these experiences shape our perceptions and reactions. The world around us, with its constant mixture of joy and hardship, can easily overwhelm our minds and draw our attention to what is discouraging or fearful.
This battle with our thoughts is one we are not meant to fight alone. As we fix our minds on God, we are reminded of who He is—faithful, present, and trustworthy. When we do this, His peace guards our hearts, and our trust in Him grows stronger.
Today’s Promise:
The Lord keeps us in perfect peace. To remain in that peace, we must keep our minds focused on Him and trust Him.
Application:
• What negative thoughts are you fixating on today?
• Read Philippians 4:8.
• Ask yourself: Are these thoughts true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and excellent?
• If not, intentionally shift your thinking toward what is true, pure, lovely, and excellent in your life.
• Remind yourself that everything good comes from God—and He can be trusted.
~ Christian Mentor
