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STUFF ABOUT GOD AND CHRISTIANITY
This column represents the thoughts and opinions of Dr. Ron Braley. This is not the opinion of the Elgin Courier.
During his 2016 campaign, President Donald Trump pledged to “drain the swamp.” Whether the swamp is swampier now or not, I pondered, “Do others also need to be drained?” The answer? Yep—the brain/mind. Our focus is on defining, draining, and keeping it clean.
Name that brain
This organ controls all aspects of the body, from speech to movement. One of its functions is the ‘mind,’ from which everything flows. It receives input, develops thoughts, and facilitates action. Because it is central to everything, biblical writers call it the ‘heart.’ It can enable entering God’s kingdom (Matthew 5:8). It determines what’s important to an individual (Matthew 6:21). And it processes temptations, sometimes permitting rebellion against God: “But the things that proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and those defile the man. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, slanders.” (Matthew 15:18-19) Is having a swampy brain/mind/ heart dangerous? Absolutely.
The dangers of a swampy brain
Feeding the heart swamp is easy because we usually do what seems and feels good. Here’s the process, according to Jesus’ brother James: “But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death.” (James 1:1415) Feeding the swamp can produce a depraved and rebellious mind that will at least lead to spiritual death. The apostle Paul confirmed this in Romans 1:29-31. There, he wrote that God abandoned those who rejected Him in favor of immoralities and rebellion stemming from a depraved mind. The outcome? Exclusion from God’s Kingdom (Galatians 5:19-21). How can we clean the heart and keep it swamp-free? Read on.
Draining, cleaning, and protecting the brain
The best course of action is to keep the swamp from forming in the first place by: Guarding our ears and eyes (Matthew 6:22-23).
Walking by the Spirit God gives everyone devoted to Him (Galatians 5:16).
Immersing (clothing) ourselves with the things of our God and Christ instead of chasing what feels good but is immoral (Romans 13:12-14).
But what if we’ve already allowed a swampy heart to form? Repent by changing behavior because of a new heart in Christ, which leads to these things: Putting aside evil things like slander and filthy speech (Colossians 3:8).
Transformation by renewing the heart through Bible study, discipleship, etc. (Romans 12:1-2).
Good habits formed through practicing physically and spiritually
healthy things.
Summary
In the things of God, the mind and heart are usually synonymous. Chasing what seems or feels good can form a swampy heart that is useless to God. To drain it, don’t succumb to unhealthy temptations, avoid ungodly stuff, walk by God’s Spirit and be transformed by renewing your mind/heart. Next time, we’ll ask, “Will the real love please stand up?” Meanwhile, follow Christ, not people.
Email news@taylorpress. net if you have questions or comments.
Blessings and peace, Dr. Ron Braley, MDiv, DMin.
