Correcting Cognitive Distortions | Week 04
CORRECTING COGNITIVE DISTORTIONS
Week’s Passage: Philippians 4:6-13
inTro
Stinking Thinking
A young man battling drug addiction and feelings of worthlessness found freedom by replacing lies from his childhood with the truth of God’s Word: “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). Through daily affirmations and reliance on Jesus, he overcame destructive thoughts, fulfilling John 8:32: “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”
Cognitive distortions, like believing “I’m a failure” or “I’m not good enough,” harm our well-being. True freedom comes by renewing our minds with God’s truth, rejecting lies, and embracing our identity in Christ, who brings clarity and purpose.
inGest
Guard the Mind
Our thoughts impact our emotions and health. Negative thoughts harm us, while positive ones promote well-being. Philippians 4:7-8 urges us to guard our minds and focus on Christ. By dwelling on Him, we are transformed to reflect His character (2 Cor. 3:18). What we behold shapes who we become.
inTerpret
Whatever Things are true.
Our thoughts shape our feelings and actions, but distorted thinking can harm our mental and emotional well-being. Cognitive distortions like all-or-nothing thinking, overgeneralization, catastrophizing, and emotional reasoning lead us to believe harmful lies. Philippians 4:8 reminds us to test our thoughts against truth. By confronting lies with God’s Word, rejecting irrational patterns, and focusing on Christ, we can renew our minds (2 Cor. 10:4–6). Through neuroplasticity, our brains can be reshaped over time, allowing us to experience peace and freedom in Christ.
inVite
Christ who Strengthens me
Our minds are spiritual battlegrounds, and we need Christ’s power to overcome negative thoughts and emotions. By inviting Christ into our minds, spending time in prayer, and seeking the mind of Christ (Phil. 2:5), we can gradually transform our thought patterns. Confront lies with God’s Word, as Jesus did (Matt. 4:4), and pray for help in identifying and resisting negative emotions like fear, bitterness, and discouragement.
Healing requires faith, effort, and time. It’s essential to seek support from mentors, therapists, or pastors and combine prayer with practical resources. Through Christ’s strength (Phil. 4:13), we can achieve lasting peace and renewal.
inSight
Guarded Thoughts
Ellen G. White emphasizes the profound connection between the mind and body, teaching that mental and spiritual healing often precedes physical restoration. Sin and negative emotions, such as anger and discontent, can harm health, while cheerfulness, gratitude, and self-control promote vitality and healing. Guarding thoughts, practicing self-restraint, and focusing on Christ are essential for right actions and a healthy life. By consistently choosing higher thoughts and habits, individuals can rise to a noble standard and experience God’s peace and approval. Our first and last thoughts each day should center on Christ, the source of eternal hope.
inQuire
•How can we be proactive and intentional about helping friends find peace of mind (Phil. 4:6, 7)?
•What are cognitive distortions? How do they affect us spiritually and emotionally? (See inTerpret if needed.)
•What lies have you been tempted to believe about yourself and others?
•What do you think about neuroplasticity? Is it possible to change your thoughts and mindset?
•How can somebody struggling with a negative mindset find victory through the strength of Christ (Phil. 4:12, 13)?
