Mindfulness: Cultivating Awareness of God’s Power and Love

Experiencing God's Creation: A Path to Mindfulness

In our fast-paced world, filled with daily demands and endless distractions, it is easy to lose sight of what truly matters. Our anxiety, fears, and the busyness of our day-to-day lives can often cloud our minds and hearts. Recently, I had the privilege of visiting Maui, and the experience was a profound reminder of the importance of mindfulness and being present with God's creation.

As I stood on the shores of Maui, gazing at the vast expanse of the ocean, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace. The rhythmic sound of the waves, the sight of turtles gracefully swimming, and the vibrant colors of tropical fish darting through the coral reefs all spoke to the grandeur and beauty of God's creation. It was in these moments that I was reminded of how sovereign and great our Creator is, and how small I am in comparison.

The Healing Power of Nature

Nature has a unique way of drawing us closer to God. As Psalm 19:1 tells us, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands." Immersing ourselves in the beauty of God's creation, whether it be in the mountains or the ocean, allows us to experience profound healing and gain a renewed perspective.

This healing is not surprising, as we are an integral part of His creation. Our hearts, souls, minds, and strength are deeply connected to the world around us, and nature beautifully reflects His love, provision, and presence. Studies have shown that spending time in nature reduces stress, improves mood, enhances cognitive function, fosters a deeper spiritual connection, and benefits our physical health as well. Each moment spent in creation reaffirms our relationship with the Creator, nourishing our entire being and allowing us to experience His love in restorative ways.

During my time in Maui, I was especially struck by the intricate details and seamless harmony of the natural world. From the smallest fish to the vast ocean, every element is a testament to God's meticulous craftsmanship and loving care for all creation. This realization brought a deep sense of calm and mindfulness that is often elusive in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, reminding me of the healing power of engaging with God's handiwork.

Mindfulness in God's Presence

Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment, aware of our thoughts, feelings, and physical senses, allowing us to recognize the beauty of God's creation and His presence in our lives. It reflects our desire to engage deeply with God, acknowledging His majesty, overflowing love, and intimate desire for connection with us. This practice is part of God’s original design, inviting us to worship Him, Him alone, with our whole being. Scripture supports this by encouraging us to "Be still, and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10), urging us to quiet ourselves and recognize His presence. The greatest commandment to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30) emphasizes that mindfulness is an essential expression of our devotion. By cultivating gratitude, as instructed in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, we can appreciate the many blessings He provides. Furthermore, taking moments to be still allows us to listen for God's voice, guiding us in alignment with His will. In this way, mindfulness becomes a profound expression of worship and our relationship with the Creator.

Overcoming Anxiety and Fear

Our anxieties and fears can sometimes stem from feeling disconnected from God's sovereignty and goodness. By practicing mindfulness and focusing on God's limitless power and love for us, we can shift our perspective from our problems to God's greatness. The sight of the ocean waves crashing against the shore or the serene flight of a bird can remind us of who God is and His control over all things. Best of all, He eagerly desires for us to spend time with Him.

Philippians 4:6-7 tells us, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." When we turn our focus to God and his creation, we can find peace that surpasses all understanding.

Finding Focus in a Busy and Scary World

In our daily lives, it is easy to become consumed by trifling matters and overwhelming fears that distract us from our spiritual well-being. The pressures of work, family responsibilities, and the uncertainties of life can often feel daunting. In the midst of this busyness and anxiety, the beauty of God's creation calls us to pause, reflect, and refocus.

Taking time to be mindful of the Creator and His works can help us realign our priorities and find clarity amidst the chaos. As I stood in awe of the ocean's majesty and the intricate dance of the tropical fish, I was reminded of the importance of being still and knowing that He is God.

In moments of stillness, we can find solace and strength, allowing God's peace to wash over us. It is in these quiet moments that we can hear God's voice and feel His presence more clearly. By stepping away from the noise and distractions of life, we invite His love, wisdom, and comfort into our hearts, empowering us to navigate both the busy and scary aspects of life with renewed faith and courage.

Embracing Mindfulness in Daily Life

While we may not always have the opportunity to escape to a place like Maui, we can still practice mindfulness and appreciate God's creation in our daily lives. Living in Northern Colorado offers its own unique beauty and opportunities to connect with the Creator. Whether it's a hike in the Rocky Mountains, a quick drive to the mountains, or simply sitting by a serene mountain lake, there are countless ways to experience the grandeur of God's handiwork right here in our backyard.

Imagine standing at the summit of a mountain, breathing in the crisp, fresh air, and gazing out at the expansive landscape below. The towering peaks and lush valleys are a testament to God's power and creativity. These moments of stillness in nature can help us to be more mindful of God's presence and appreciate the intricate details of His creation.

Colorado's diverse landscapes, from its alpine meadows to its red rock formations, invite us to pause and reflect on God's goodness. As you walk along a forest trail, listen to the rustling leaves and the chirping birds. Let these sounds remind you of God's constant care and provision.

By incorporating these mindful practices into our daily routines, we can find peace and clarity amidst the busyness of life. Let us strive to be mindful of God's presence and the beauty of His creation, whether we are exploring the natural wonders of Colorado or simply taking a moment to appreciate the world around us.

One of my favorite songs is "So Will I," which beautifully captures the power of the Creator, yet His love and willingness to give up everything to save us. You might enjoy giving it a listen.

May we always remember the words of Psalm 121:1-2, "I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth."

www.sandraleecounseling.com

Love Story: The Power of Narrative

[Disclaimer: This blogpost is intended for those who frequently find themselves trapped in unproductive, unhealthy relationship patterns and are eager to break the cycle. Before proceeding, I want to clarify that I did not write this with the intent to address or reference any form of *abusive behavior.]

While we often expect that love alone should make relationships effortless, the reality is that maintaining healthy and fulfilling connections requires ongoing effort. Misunderstandings, conflicts, and emotional distances can build up, leaving couples, friends, and family members feeling disconnected and disheartened. By transforming the stories we tell ourselves and each other, we can foster deeper connections and stronger bonds.

The Power of Stories in Relationships

Our lives are shaped by the stories we tell. These narratives influence how we see ourselves, perceive others, and interact with the world around us. In relationships, the stories we construct about our partners or loved ones can significantly impact the health and satisfaction of those connections. If we continuously tell ourselves a story where our partner, a family member, or a friend is inconsiderate or unloving, our interactions are likely to be colored by frustration and resentment. Conversely, if we intentionally focus on a narrative that acknowledges their inherent goodness while considering other possible reasons for disagreements, we're more likely to approach the relationship with appreciation and positivity.

As Scripture says, we are encouraged to sanctify ourselves and see others as God’s beloved, created in His image, and so precious that He sent His one and only Son to die for them: "Therefore become imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example], as well-beloved children [imitate their father]; and walk continually in love [that is, value one another—practice empathy and compassion, unselfishly seeking the best for others], just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and sacrifice to God [slain for you, so that it became] a sweet fragrance" (Ephesians 5:1-2). By following this example, we can transform our relational narratives to reflect empathy, compassion, and selfless love.

Externalizing Problems: It’s Not Them, It’s the Enemy. It’s Our Sinful Nature.

A powerful technique in transforming relationships is externalization, which involves viewing problems as separate from the individuals involved. Instead of seeing our partner, a family member, or a friend as difficult or malicious, we can recognize that issues like misunderstandings, stress, exhaustion, and past trauma are manifestations of our shared sinful nature and external forces, including the influence of the Enemy, Satan, which can be addressed collaboratively.

Imagine a couple grappling with frequent arguments. Instead of labeling each other as argumentative or incompatible, they might externalize the issue by saying, "We've had a challenging day and are under spiritual attack. I notice myself feeling easily angered and misunderstanding what you're saying. But I recognize that you're here because you love me and want to resolve this. I love you, and I want to resolve it, too." This shift in perspective transforms the couple into a team addressing a shared challenge rather than adversaries in conflict. Moreover, by intentionally highlighting and appreciating each other's positive qualities—such as kindness, efforts, and strengths—the couple strengthens their bond and collaborates more effectively. Recognizing the influence of sin and the Enemy, while focusing on their God-given positive attributes, enables them to support and encourage each other in overcoming these obstacles.

Deconstructing Negative Narratives and Re-authoring Relationships

Transforming relationships involves not only deconstructing negative narratives that dominate our thinking but also exploring their origins and challenging their validity. These harmful stories often stem from past experiences, unrealistic expectations, or societal pressures rather than the Truth.

Once these negative narratives are broken down and understood, the focus can shift to re-authoring more empowering and constructive stories. Couples, family members, or friends can redefine their narrative by emphasizing strengths and successes, thereby creating a more positive and hopeful outlook on their relationship.

For example, a husband might feel inadequate due to past emotional wounds from his family and current financial stress. This narrative can cast a long shadow over his relationship with his wife, leading to irritability and insecurity, especially during discussions about finances. He might misinterpret his wife’s genuine attempts to address their financial situation as accusations of mistrust and irresponsibility. By examining the narrative he holds about himself and his wife, understanding its origins, and then creating a new perspective that recognizes both his and his wife’s identity as God's beloved, he can improve his self-perception and enhance how he relates to his wife. This transformation contributes to healthier conflict resolution in their relationship.

Drawing from Scripture

Incorporating principles from Scripture can further enrich the process of transforming relationships. These principles provide a foundation of love, forgiveness, and hope, which are essential for healthy relationships.

Recognizing Our Brokenness: According to Scripture, all humans are born with a sinful nature (Romans 3:23). Recognizing that everyone, including ourselves, is inherently flawed can foster humility and compassion in our relationships.

Seeing Each Other as God Sees Us: The Bible teaches that we are all children of God and deeply loved by Him (1 John 3:1). This perspective encourages us to view our loved ones as valuable and worthy of love and respect. Understanding that God loves each of us immensely can help us to extend that same love and respect to others, regardless of their flaws.

Forgiveness and Grace: We are called to forgive others as God has forgiven us, which emphasizes extending grace to one another, understanding that everyone makes mistakes and that redemption is always possible (Ephesians 4:32).

Promises of Transformation: By focusing on God's promises and the new life found in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17), couples, families, and friends can rewrite their stories with confidence in the positive changes God can bring to their relationships.

Prayer and Reflection: Incorporating prayer into the process of transforming relationships can provide guidance and strength. Reflecting on Scripture and seeking God’s wisdom can help individuals find new perspectives and solutions. "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him" (James 1:5).

Practical Steps to Implement Transformative Narratives with Scriptural Principles

Tell Your Stories: Take time to share your individual stories with each other. Listen actively and empathetically, seeking to understand the perspectives and experiences that shape each person’s narrative.

Externalize the Problems: Practice viewing issues as external to your and your loved one’s identity. Instead of blaming each other, name the problem as something you can tackle together.

Challenge Negative Narratives: Reflect on the negative stories that dominate your thinking. Where do they come from? Are they truly reflective of your current reality? Consider how scriptural principles might provide a different perspective.

Focus on Positive Moments: Cultivate a habit of acknowledging and celebrating the positive aspects of your relationship. Intentionally recognize the talents and gifts that God has blessed your loved ones with. Reflect on the times when you overcame challenges together, allowing these moments to inspire your ongoing story.

Seek God’s Guidance: Incorporate prayer and Scripture into your reflection. Ask God for wisdom and strength to rewrite your stories in a way that honors Him and brings you closer together.

Seek Professional Guidance: If needed, consider working with a counselor or therapist. A trained professional like myself at Sandra Lee Christian Counseling can provide the tools and support necessary to navigate this transformative process.

Conclusion: The Power of Rewriting

We can profoundly enhance our relationships by transforming the stories we tell, starting with the perspective that our partners, family members, or friends are God's beloved. Externalizing problems, understanding that it's not them but the influence of the Enemy and everyone's sinful nature, and deconstructing negative narratives allow us to see challenges in a new light. Through this process, we cultivate deeper understanding, empathy, and connection with our loved ones.

This approach not only strengthens our relationships but also enriches our lives with the steadfast support and love of those we hold dear. Therefore, let us take a step back, listen to the stories with discernment, seek wisdom from God's Word, and embark on the journey of rewriting our shared narrative. In doing so, we can pave the way for a brighter, more connected future filled with grace, forgiveness, and enduring love.

www.sandraleecounseling.com

*If you have any concerns about abuse, please don’t hesitate to seek help. Visit https://www.thehotline.org for free, confidential, and 24/7 access to resources and support.

Prayer

Do you ever feel awkward, lost, or inadequate when it comes to prayer? Perhaps you struggle to find the "right" words or feel ashamed to approach God because of your sins or mistakes. You might even wonder if prayer is necessary since God already knows everything about you. But why is prayer important? It's because prayer is not just about informing God; it's about transforming us.

In the midst of life's chaos and distractions, prayer serves as a vital connection to God. While reading the Bible teaches us about His sovereignty and character, prayer prompts us to acknowledge them, our shortcomings, and our needs, helping us realign our focus and cultivate humility. Moreover, prayer fosters communication and relationship-building with God, offering guidance, wisdom, forgiveness, and opportunities for intercession and gratitude. Importantly, prayer doesn't have to be complicated. Matthew 6:7-8 reminds us that we don't need to use fancy words or lengthy phrases; rather, God values sincerity and authenticity in our prayers. Similarly, Romans 8:26 assures us that the Holy Spirit intercedes for us, even when we struggle to find the right words. 

Psychological research has shed light on the therapeutic benefits of prayer, demonstrating significant improvements in regulating emotions, anxiety, and stress. This comes as no surprise, as we were designed to pray, to connect with God. Prayer parallels the process of identifying and labeling emotions, experiences, and problems. Just as naming emotions enhances self-awareness and regulation, prayer allows us to articulate our thoughts and feelings to God, fostering validation and normalization.

Moreover, in the practice of prayer, identifying problems can serve as a catalyst for gaining perspective, objectivity, and control over one's circumstances. This aligns with the biblical principle of keeping one's thoughts captive to obey Christ, as mentioned in 2 Corinthians 10:5. Through prayerful reflection, individuals can approach challenges with greater clarity and discernment. Additionally, this process facilitates problem-solving, emotional regulation, and coping mechanisms. By recognizing that difficulties are not inherent to one's identity but rather external factors, including the Enemy, individuals can mitigate feelings of shame or self-blame, as these external factors can be addressed or managed.

Furthermore, prayer provides emotional support, aiding in our transition out of the fight-or-flight state and cultivating a sense of peace as we acknowledge God's sovereignty and recognize His ultimate authority over our circumstances. This sense of peace also comes from knowing that in prayer, we are not alone or isolated; rather, we are in fellowship with God, which can bring comfort and reassurance in times of distress. This approach underscores the therapeutic nature of prayer, offering individuals a pathway to resilience and spiritual growth.

Consider the Lord's Prayer, a model of prayer taught by Jesus Himself. In its simplicity, it covers essential aspects of prayer: Acknowledging God's holiness, submitting to His will, seeking provision and forgiveness, and requesting guidance and protection. Each element serves a purpose, guiding believers in their approach to prayer and reinforcing the importance of intimacy with God. If you would like more information on the breakdown of the Lord’s Prayer, I would recommend reading this article: https://www.christianity.com/wiki/prayer/breakdown-of-the-lords-prayer.html

In summary, prayer is not merely a religious obligation but a transformative practice that empowers us to navigate life in this broken world with clarity and compassion. By embracing prayer as a means of seeking intimacy with our Creator and finding healing, we recognize that we are not alone in navigating the challenges of this dark world. Prayer becomes a pathway to experiencing the profound intimacy and grace of God's presence, providing solace and strength amidst life's uncertainties. As we lift our voices in prayer, we acknowledge God's sovereignty, trusting in His goodness and wisdom that far surpasses our understanding (Ephesians 3:20). Even when faced with difficulties beyond our comprehension, prayer reminds us of God's steady love and His plans for us. Isaiah 41:10 reassures us, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Through prayer, we surrender our worries, fears, and control, finding comfort in knowing that God's purposes prevail and His grace is sufficient for every trial.

www.sandraleecounseling.com

Personality

Building on our exploration of intentionality from last week, where we focused on maintaining purposeful attention amidst distractions, today's discussion takes a more practical turn as we investigate the intricacies of personality.

Personality, a subject that has captivated psychologists and scientists alike, examines the enduring patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that make each of us incredibly unique. Through the complex interplay of genetics, environment, and lived experiences, personality psychology offers profound insights into how we navigate the world around us.

Today’s post will examine how the intricacies of our and others’ personalities can deepen our grasp of God’s characters, fostering self-awareness and encouraging readers to intentionally seek understanding of human behavior and relationships, whether with significant others, children, parents, colleagues, or friends. As we explore these dynamics, we will uncover how our innate tendencies shape our responses to life's challenges and opportunities, sometimes propelling us toward growth and other times posing obstacles.

So, let’s begin.

We notice varying degrees of personalities and uniqueness, even among siblings who share the same exact parents. As previously discussed, each of us is created exceptionally and wonderfully, reflecting divine craftsmanship, as highlighted in Psalm 139:14. However, this rarity and individuality is also grounded in our shared image of God, as noted in Genesis 1:27. Thus, we are gifted with His personality, His character evident in each of us. This inherent goodness permeates every individual, adding to the richness of His boundless creation.

Sadly, the entry of sin into the world, fueled by temptations from the Enemy and humans being deceived by them, has distorted the good and perfect gifts given by God (Genesis 2-3; James 1:16-17). We previously examined this topic in the context of the opposing forces within us—the struggle between our broken, selfish nature and the prompting of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:16-26). This dichotomy is often glaringly apparent when we examine personalities.

Consider, for instance, the paradox of a natural leader who, while possessing the potential for great leadership qualities, lacks empathy and flexibility. Similarly, those inclined towards grace and peace may also tend to avoid conflict excessively. An individual deeply rooted in creativity and enjoyment of the present might struggle with order and sensible prioritization, while a go-getter might find their self-worth entangled with their successes. Furthermore, an inquisitive person may sometimes become reclusive, withdrawing into their thoughts and ideas rather than engaging with the world around them.

To make things even harder, we also contend with the complexity of hastily being judged by our differences, adding to the already challenging task of navigating our own internal issues. When individuals possess unique qualities and deviate from our expectations or act in ways unfamiliar to us, it's easy to succumb to judgment without fully understanding their motivations or circumstances.

So what if we intentionally approached both ourselves and others with awe and wonder? What if we acknowledged that each personality trait, inherently good and made in the image of God, is often accompanied by its shadow side—the influence of our sinful nature? Despite these flaws, each trait harbors immense potential for growth and contribution.

Self-awareness plays a crucial role in this journey of growth and sanctification. By becoming aware of our own personality traits, tendencies, and areas for improvement, we can actively participate in the process of personal and spiritual growth. Through self-reflection and introspection, we can identify patterns of behavior that align with the guidance of the Holy Spirit and those that stem from our sinful nature. This awareness empowers us to make intentional choices that lead to positive growth and transformation.

As we deepen our understanding of ourselves and others, God’s character in us and our sinful nature, we confront the paradoxical aspects of our personalities intentionally and purposefully. Leaders, for example, can learn to balance their strengths by nurturing empathy and teamwork. Similarly, those inclined towards grace and forgiveness can complement these qualities with truth and accountability, fostering deeper connections. Likewise, creative individuals prone to procrastination can approach prioritization with a joyful heart, while go-getters balance their pursuit of success with a focus on their identity in Christ rather than worldly accomplishments. Finally, the inquisitive can recognize the value of collaboration and the richness that comes from engaging others in their curiosity.

Furthermore, we are called to actively participate in the sanctification process of becoming more like Christ. This intentional practice of personal growth not only strengthens our relationship with God but also deepens our empathy and compassion for others. As we experience God's grace and forgiveness in our own lives, we are compelled to extend that same grace and compassion to those around us.

Now, turning inward, let's contemplate our own personality traits and those we love: What inherent goodness does each possess, and what shadows does it cast? How can we be more intentional about nurturing their potential for growth this week? This introspective journey is not merely about self-discovery but about aligning ourselves with the greatest commandment to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love others as ourselves. By recognizing both the light and the shadows within us, we can take intentional steps towards becoming better stewards of our gifts and fostering deeper connections with our Creator and His creations.

Licensed Christian counselors, such as myself at Sandra Lee Christian Counseling, can offer valuable assistance in navigating the complexities of self-awareness, personal growth, and spiritual development. May you progress on a transformative path towards becoming the person God created you to be—a vessel of His love, grace, truth, and light to the world.

www.sandraleecounseling.com

Intentionality

Last week, we explored the significance of intentional responses within our relationships, emphasizing the creation of a safe space for genuine connection and effective conflict resolution. Today, let's dive deeper into the broader concept of intentionality, a practice deeply rooted in both biblical teachings and evidence-based principles.

In today's culture, where the prevailing message urges us to prioritize individual desires and emotions, the idea of intentionality stands as counter-cultural. Society tells us to "find your truth," “do what makes you happy,” and indulge in instant gratification, often through the constant accessibility of resources like our phones. From emails and texts to social media, shopping, and streaming services, our devices offer a plethora of distractions, tempting us to seek immediate satisfaction rather than engage in intentional, meaningful activities aligned with our long-term goals and values.

However, this combination of prioritizing desires and seeking instant gratification can prove detrimental to our well-being. Society's relentless emphasis on the immediate fulfillment of desires often causes us to overlook the broader effects or consequences of our actions. This perpetuates unrealistic expectations, fostering the belief that everything should be immediate, perfect, and effortless. Consequently, when reality fails to meet these inflated hopes, it often leads to disappointment, frustration, anger, and a diminished sense of well-being and resilience. Notably, this trend aligns with a concerning decline in mental health observed in recent years, as studies consistently show an increase in anxiety, depression, violence, and other mental health issues.

It's essential to acknowledge that emotions themselves are not inherently negative; rather, they reflect the image of God Himself. Just as God experiences a range of emotions, so do we, as we are made in His likeness. Even Jesus, in His humanity, experienced emotions such as sadness, anger, and fear. These emotions serve a purpose in our lives: Sadness can point us to the devastating effects of evil and the broken world, anger can give us the courage to stand up against injustice and the Enemy, and fear can remind us of our need to rely on God's strength rather than our own.

While emotions themselves are inherently good, they require intentional management to align with God's principles. Emotions have the power to overwhelm us, hindering rational thinking—a phenomenon evident even in brain imaging studies during the fight-flight response. In this state, the prefrontal cortex, responsible for rational decision-making, becomes less active, while the amygdala, which governs emotions, becomes highly activated.

During the fight-flight response, our brain prioritizes immediate survival over rational decision-making. This means that when we're in a heightened emotional state, such as fear or anger, our ability to think critically and make reasoned choices is compromised. As a result, we may find ourselves reacting impulsively or irrationally, rather than making decisions based on careful consideration and reflection. Understanding this neurological process highlights the importance of managing our emotions intentionally to ensure that our decision-making skills remain clear and aligned with God's principles.

This includes guarding our hearts and minds against negativity, keeping our thoughts captive, and standing firm in faith amidst life's challenges. Contrary to the cultural norm of indulging in every emotion without restraint, biblical wisdom reminds us to test everything that seems good and to be transformed rather than conforming to worldly patterns (1 Thessalonians 5:21; Romans 12:2). Proverbs 4:23 advises us to guard our hearts above all else, for everything we do flows from it. Likewise, 1 Peter 5:8 warns us to be vigilant and sober-minded, for the Enemy seeks to devour us. And 1 Corinthians 16:13 encourages us to stand firm in our faith, to be courageous, and to be strong. In essence, managing our emotions intentionally and aligning them with God's will is essential for navigating life's challenges and living a life that honors Him.

To achieve this alignment, we must first take the time to identify and acknowledge 1) the events that trigger stress, 2) our interpretation of these stressors, and 3) our emotional and behavioral responses. We then evaluate whether our interpretation and reactions align with the Truth and God’s greater purpose. Notably, various therapeutic modalities emphasize the significance of intentional thought management in this process. Whether through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) Therapy, Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, or Trauma-Informed Therapy, the overarching principle remains consistent: Cultivating intentional thoughts and responses to promote emotional and behavioral health. It's important to recognize that our feelings and thoughts are not necessarily facts. By engaging in these therapeutic modalities, individuals can learn to challenge and reframe unhelpful thoughts, gaining greater control over their emotions and behaviors. This aligns closely with biblical teachings, which emphasize the caution against the fallibility of the heart if we are not intentional (Jeremiah 17:9).

In summary, intentionality, firmly rooted in scripture and evidence-based practices, offers a transformative path toward nurturing healthy relationships and enhancing mental well-being. By intentionally aligning our thoughts and actions with God's principles and the insights of evidence-based therapy, which go hand in hand, we empower ourselves to navigate life's complexities with grace, resilience, and purpose.

If you're seeking support on this journey of intentional living, Sandra Lee Christian Counseling is here to provide guidance and walk alongside you. Together, we can cultivate a life filled with meaningful connections, emotional health, and spiritual growth.

www.sandraleecounseling.com