"Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you shall eat, nor about your body, what you shall put on. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. Consider the ravens: They neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! And which of you by being anxious can add a cubit to his span of life? If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest?" Luke 1:22-25

 

Mindfulness is a concept used to describe a state of meditation in which individuals focus their inner attention to become more self-aware. Mindfulness is a self-examination of one's thoughts, feelings, physical sensations, and emotions without any judgement of being right or wrong. Meditative mindfulness aims to recognize thoughts and feelings about a particular problem, to live in a moment, and to accept oneself fully. When this target is achieved, the individual is said to have entered a state of mindfulness. 

 

Mindfulness is rooted in Buddhism, as mindfulness proponents readily admit, although it is also modified for secular purposes. The philosophy behind mindfulness is to promote stillness and harmony in mind. 

 

Man's attempts to relax his mind and rid himself of stressors—through mindfulness or other Modern Age techniques—are an attempt to create harmony. From a biblical point of view, we know that only Jesus brings peace that can exist in all situations "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." John 14:27. 

 

"No human being can regulate emotions or thoughts of his own, since we are born slaves of a sinful nature" (Romans 6:17-23). Only through the strength of the Holy Spirit, who sets our minds free to think truthfully, will we know true peace. If we want to practise being more conscious or reflective, there are much better choices than mindfulness methods, such as Bible study and prayer for wisdom. 

 

When Christians think biblically, they see things identified by the prism of Scripture. The word aware, which means "attentive," does not characterise something that is necessarily false. Christians should be mindful of Christ by taking every thought captive to Christ and renewing their minds with the facts (2 Corinthians 10:5).  Romans 12:2 says "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." However, mindfulness, as promoted in psychology and used as a meditation technique, is not biblical.

 

Can Christians practise mindfulness safely? 

As you've learned, in the Christian world, views about mindfulness and its effects differ. People who are cynical about it often point out their Eastern roots. That mindfulness, they might say: 

  • It is founded on an unhealthy level of self-centeredness.
  • Promotes a worldview of one-with-the-cosmos.
  • It helps to clear the mind (which can leave individuals vulnerable to supernatural influences).
  • Promotes escape from reality.

 

These worries are valid. The approach, however, contradicts the teaching of Scripture to have Christ's mind and analyze everything in light of our vertical relationship with God and Jesus. 

So will mindfulness ever be a healthy and constructive choice for stress management and the creation of a healthier life of thought? Yes Yes! 

 

As a counseling method, Christians and several faith-based counselors use mindfulness in a Christ-integrated way. As long as it is rooted in Scripture and focuses on communicating with God, they think mindfulness can be consistent with a biblical worldview. 

And, luckily, the Bible has a lot to say about calming our minds and keeping the One who lovingly made us and intimately knows us in a vertical emphasis. For instance: 

 

  • Christians are reminded by the apostle Paul, that they are called to be conscious and live with an appreciation of the present (Philippians 2:1-5).
  • Prayer is one very practical way in which Christians add attention to everyday life (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
  • In the sense of spending time learning the Word of God (Psalm 48:9; Psalm 63:6), meditation occurs in the Bible.
  • We should look at Jesus and think of things that are real and admirable (Hebrews 12:2; Philippians 4:8).
  • Christians do not let their fears about the future confuse them (Matthew 6:25-34).
  • "We are taught by Scripture to "take captive every thought" (2 Corinthians 10:5).
  • Through renewing our minds, Paul advises us to "be changed" (Romans 12:2) and to practice God-honoring thoughts (Philippians 4:9).

 

Mindfulness is a perfect way to learn to relax and to reduce the levels of stress. This Christian App Amen contains reflections and meditations based on the Christian principles of biblical meditation and contemplative prayer. 

 

Each contemplation focuses on enabling you to meditate on Jesus and concentrate on Him. In peace and stillness, by the influence of the Holy Spirit, we will come close to God. 

 

The Amen App is a new way to communicate with God and learn more about yourself. If you have a few minutes or hours, in our special library of meditations, scriptures, music, and sleep storeys, you'll find something that's just right for you. At the heart of the app, we're all about the connection, with yourself, with others and with God. Download the app today to get a step higher in your spiritual journey.