Mind

Mind, Body, & Soul

The mind is the most valuable tool that a man has in his possession. As long as a man has his mind he is able to pray, think, or figure his way out of anything; a man can endure the death of a loved one, physical abuse, or any other type of offense with a sound, strong, stable mind. But once the mind is tampered with it is almost as though death has accrued to that man.

The Mind of A Man

I am always intrigued by the movie: A Beautiful Mind. For those who haven’t seen it, it’s based on a true story about John Forbes Nash, Jr., a mathematical genius, who makes an astonishing discovery early in his career and stands on the brink of international acclaim. But the handsome and arrogant Nash soon finds himself on a painful and harrowing journey of self-discovery once he is diagnosed with schizophrenia. Although the movie doesn’t delve into Mr. Nash’s spiritual life, if any, there are definite lessons to be learned—especially for the believer since, without a vigil eye, we can also be puffed up with pride. The most obvious aspect of this lesson is that Mr. Nash’s most prized possession, probably what he values above all else, even God, is snatched away from him: his highly-intellectual mind, to the point that he can’t distinguish reality from his very real delusions of paranoia. He is reduced from genius to someone who, according to this society, is just plain crazy! Eventually, however, Mr. Nash triumphs over this tragedy, and finally, late in life, receives the Nobel Prize. And one senses that this tragedy has made him a better and humble person. Yet, I can’t help but wonder, was this tragedy by accident, or of Providence? We may never know. But, most importantly, have you, the believer, found yourself so proud of your achievements that you’d forgotten—even temporarily—as to whom had given you the ability to achieve? Yes, we are fearfully and wonderfully made, our minds being the most precious gift given to us, setting us apart from all other creatures; yes, GIVEN to us, which means it can be taken away. So let us not be like the world reveling in our achievements without praise to the Almighty, lest we believe that we are greater—no, smarter—than God.

Scripture

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind (Romans 12:2).

Praying

Like Apostle Paul, I keep praying that we are to be made new in the attitude of our minds; and to put on our new selves, created to be like you, O’ Lord, in true righteousness and holiness. But not only our minds, dear Father, but condition our hearts to love You, and to love others like You have loved us. And finally, Father God, let our conversations be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that we may know how to answer everybody. Amen.