How can I stop having negative thoughts?

Answer

Chronic negative thinking, depression, anxiety, and similar disorders are increasing worldwide. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America reports that 40 million adults in the U.S. are affected, which is nearly 20 percent of the population (source, accessed 1/29/21). Among them, many are professing Christians.

Fear appears to be a fundamental cause of many of these issues. It is understandable that people feel fearful in a world where nothing seems dependable. It can be quite distressing for an individual to realize that almost everything in life is ultimately beyond their control—from the weather to their bank account balance. All the things people depend on for security will eventually let them down. However, the Christian who acknowledges the sovereignty of an Almighty God who orchestrates all things for their good “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28) possesses the remedy for negative thinking.

When a Christian’s thinking is predominantly negative, anxious, or doubtful, and there is no underlying physiological cause affecting brain chemistry, it is likely a sign of a lack of faith. The author of Hebrews affirms, “Without faith it is impossible to please God” “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” (Hebrews 11:6), and according to Proverbs 29:25, fear is a trap but…Trust in the Lord keeps a person safe. Jesus, while boating with His disciples during a severe storm, questioned them, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” «And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. », (Matthew 8:26). Those who battle negative thinking should handle it as they would any other sin—acknowledge it (agree with God that negative thinking is wrong because it shows a lack of trust) and strive to change the behavior.

Prayer is a crucial element in conquering negativity. Jesus instructed that prayer should involve praise to the Father and a focus on His holiness (Matthew 6:9;see also Psalm 95:2). By praying “with thanksgiving” «Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. », (Philippians 4:6), we concentrate on the blessings we have received and eliminate space for negative thoughts. The Holy Spirit will faithfully assist the repentant believer in overcoming negative thinking (Matthew 7:7-11).

Regular Bible reading, especially focusing on God’s promises, is extremely beneficial in combating negative thinking. It’s important to recall that, regardless of how bleak the current circumstances may seem, Christians have been assured of God’s love and triumph in Christ (Romans 8:37-39;2 Corinthians 2:14).

The Scriptures are filled with directives from God to His people to conquer fear and doubt—over 350 commands to “fear not.”Of fact, the primary verbal encouragement Jesus gives more than any other is a call to fearless living (e.g., Matthew 6:25; Matthew 9:2; Matthew 10:28; 10:31).

The struggle against negative thinking is a battle for the mind. The apostle Paul instructs believers on what to focus on: things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”, (Philippians 4:8). Besides outlining what thoughts should occupy our minds, this text implies that we can regulate our thought patterns. When a negative thought arises, the individual with the mind of Christ “For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.”, (1 Corinthians 2:16) possesses the ability to dismiss it and substitute it with godly thoughts. This requires practice, but with perseverance, it becomes easier. Christians must be mindful of their thoughts and not allow their minds to wander freely. In our spiritual battle, we have been equipped with the helmet of salvation—spiritual protection for the mind.

As long as Christians reside in a fearful, stressful world, negative thoughts will surface. We can choose to either eliminate those thoughts or nurture them. The encouraging news is that negative thoughts can be exchanged for positive ones, and the more this transformation occurs, the greater peace and joy we can enjoy.