Blog

<h2>Introduction</h2>
<p>Inner peace is a state of tranquility and harmony that many of us long for in our lives. It is a deep sense of calmness that allows us to navigate through life's challenges with grace and clarity. While there are various paths to finding inner peace, one of the most profound ways is through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. In this blog post, we will explore how embracing Jesus as our Savior can lead us to experience true inner peace.</p>

<h3>The Source of Inner Peace</h3>
<p>Jesus Christ is often referred to as the Prince of Peace. He offers a peace that surpasses all understanding and is not dependent on external circumstances. This peace originates from a deep sense of love and acceptance that comes from knowing and being known by God. Through Jesus, we can find solace in the midst of chaos and turmoil, as He promises to be with us always.</p>
<figure id="figure-rt6ibut09blm5b8b6a"><img id="rt6ibut09blm5b8b6a" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1499728603263-13726abce5fd?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMXx8aW5uZXIlMjBwZWFjZXxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTM4NTc4NTF8MA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="inner peace" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h3>Surrendering Control</h3>
<p>One of the key steps in experiencing true inner peace is surrendering control to Jesus. We often try to control every aspect of our lives, which only leads to stress and anxiety. By relinquishing our need for control and placing our trust in Jesus, we allow Him to guide our steps and bring peace to our hearts. Surrendering control is not a one-time event but a daily practice of letting go and allowing God to work in and through us.</p>

<h3>Prayer and Meditation</h3>
<p>Prayer and meditation are powerful tools that can help us cultivate inner peace. Through prayer, we communicate with God, pouring out our hearts and seeking His guidance. It is in these moments of stillness and connection that we can experience His peace. Meditation, on the other hand, involves quieting our minds and focusing on God's presence. By intentionally setting aside time for prayer and meditation, we create space for God to speak to us and bring tranquility to our souls.</p>
<figure id="figure-hjpc2b3uadlm5b8gvb"><img id="hjpc2b3uadlm5b8gvb" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1518708909080-704599b19972?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxwcmF5ZXIlMjBhbmQlMjBtZWRpdGF0aW9ufGVufDB8fHx8MTY5Mzg1Nzg1OXww&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="prayer and meditation" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h3>Letting Go of Worry and Fear</h3>
<p>Worry and fear are common obstacles to inner peace. However, Jesus encourages us not to be anxious about anything but to trust in Him. When we surrender our worries and fears to Jesus, He replaces them with His peace. It is important to remember that worry and fear are not productive and only rob us of the present moment. Instead, we can choose to focus on God's promises and trust that He will take care of us.</p>

<h3>Forgiveness and Reconciliation</h3>
<p>Unresolved conflicts and grudges can weigh heavily on our hearts and hinder our ability to experience inner peace. Jesus teaches us the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation. By extending forgiveness to others and seeking reconciliation, we free ourselves from the burden of resentment and open the door to inner healing and peace. It is through the power of forgiveness that we can experience true freedom and restoration.</p>
<figure id="figure-h8k69bk79vlm5b8lqk"><img id="h8k69bk79vlm5b8lqk" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1644718273800-838c7f44efef?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxNHx8Zm9yZ2l2ZW5lc3MlMjBhbmQlMjByZWNvbmNpbGlhdGlvbnxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTM4NTc4NjV8MA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="forgiveness and reconciliation" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h3>Living in Alignment with God's Will</h3>
<p>Living in alignment with God's will is another essential aspect of experiencing inner peace. When we align our thoughts, words, and actions with God's teachings, we find harmony and purpose. This requires surrendering our own desires and seeking God's guidance in all areas of our lives. As we walk in obedience to His will, we can rest assured that He is leading us on the path of peace.</p>

<h3>Community and Support</h3>
<p>Being part of a supportive community can greatly contribute to our journey towards inner peace. Surrounding ourselves with like-minded individuals who share our faith can provide encouragement, accountability, and a sense of belonging. Together, we can grow in our relationship with Jesus and support one another in times of struggle. Building strong relationships within a community of believers fosters an environment where inner peace can flourish.</p>
<figure id="figure-vk6cs5rcsslm5b8qlk"><img id="vk6cs5rcsslm5b8qlk" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1527525443983-6e60c75fff46?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw5fHxjb21tdW5pdHklMjBhbmQlMjBzdXBwb3J0fGVufDB8fHx8MTY5Mzg1Nzg3MXww&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="community and support" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h3>Embracing Grace and Love</h3>
<p>Finally, experiencing true inner peace involves embracing the grace and love that Jesus offers. We are all imperfect and fall short of God's standards, but Jesus' sacrifice on the cross grants us forgiveness and redemption. When we accept His grace and love, we can let go of guilt and shame, allowing His peace to flood our hearts. Embracing the unconditional love of Jesus is a transformative experience that brings healing and restoration to our souls.</p>

<h2>Conclusion</h2>
<p>Experiencing true inner peace is not an overnight process but a lifelong journey. By embracing Jesus Christ as our Savior, surrendering control, practicing prayer and meditation, letting go of worry and fear, extending forgiveness, living in alignment with God's will, seeking community and support, and embracing grace and love, we can cultivate a deep sense of inner peace that transcends circumstances. May you find solace and serenity as you embark on this transformative journey with Jesus.</p>

How to Experience True Inner Peace

<p>Trials and challenges are an inevitable part of life. Whether it's facing financial difficulties, health issues, or relationship problems, we all experience times of struggle and hardship. However, as believers, we have a source of strength and encouragement that can help us persevere through these trials - the Bible.</p>

<h2>Finding Hope in God's Word</h2>

<p>When we face trials, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and discouraged. But the Bible reminds us that we can find hope and strength in God's promises. In Romans 5:3-4, it says, "We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation."</p>

<p>These verses remind us that trials have a purpose. They help us grow in our faith and character, and they ultimately strengthen our hope in God. So, instead of viewing trials as obstacles, we can see them as opportunities for growth and transformation.</p>

<h2>Learning from Biblical Examples</h2>

<p>The Bible is filled with stories of individuals who faced incredible trials and persevered through them. One such example is the story of Joseph. Sold into slavery by his own brothers, falsely accused, and imprisoned, Joseph faced numerous trials throughout his life. However, he never lost faith in God and eventually rose to a position of power and influence.</p>

<p>Another inspiring example is the story of Job. Job experienced unimaginable loss and suffering, yet he remained steadfast in his faith. Despite the trials he faced, Job never wavered in his trust in God's goodness and sovereignty.</p>

<h3>Practical Steps to Persevere</h3>

<p>While reading about these biblical examples can be inspiring, it's important to know how to apply their lessons to our own lives. Here are some practical steps we can take to persevere through trials:</p>

<ol>
  <li><strong>Seek God's guidance:</strong> In times of trials, it's crucial to seek God's guidance through prayer and studying His Word. He will provide us with the wisdom and strength we need to endure.</li>
  <li><strong>Lean on your support system:</strong> Surround yourself with a community of believers who can offer encouragement, support, and prayer during difficult times.</li>
  <li><strong>Practice gratitude:</strong> Cultivate a heart of gratitude by focusing on the blessings in your life, even amidst trials. Gratitude shifts our perspective and helps us maintain a positive outlook.</li>
  <li><strong>Take care of yourself:</strong> During trials, it's essential to prioritize self-care. This includes getting enough rest, eating well, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and peace.</li>
</ol>

<h2>Conclusion</h2>

<p>Persevering through trials is not easy, but with the help of God and the wisdom found in His Word, we can find the strength to endure. The Bible reminds us that trials have a purpose and that God is with us every step of the way. So, let us hold on to hope, lean on our faith, and persevere through whatever challenges come our way.</p>

<p><figure id="figure-tr0uwcb9nlm5b1ufj"><img id="tr0uwcb9nlm5b1ufj" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1492052722242-2554d0e99e3a?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxwZXJzZXZlcmFuY2UlMjBiaWJsZXxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTM4NTc1NTB8MA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="perseverance bible" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure></p>

Persevering through Trials and Tough Times

<p>Have you ever found yourself consumed by negative thoughts and imaginations? Thoughts that bring fear, doubt, and anxiety? According to the Bible, we are called to cast down these vain imaginations and take control of our thought life. In this blog post, we will explore what the Bible says about this topic and how we can apply it to our lives.</p>

<h2>Understanding Vain Imaginations</h2>

<p>Vain imaginations are thoughts and ideas that are empty, worthless, and unprofitable. They are often rooted in fear, insecurity, and negativity. These thoughts can hinder our spiritual growth, rob us of peace, and prevent us from experiencing the abundant life that God has promised us.</p>

<h3>The Power of Our Thoughts</h3>

<p>The Bible tells us that as a man thinks in his heart, so is he. Our thoughts have the power to shape our beliefs, attitudes, and actions. If we allow vain imaginations to take root in our minds, they will eventually manifest in our lives. It is crucial, therefore, to guard our thoughts and replace negative thinking with God's truth.</p>

<h2>Renewing Our Minds</h2>

<p>Renewing our minds is a key principle in overcoming vain imaginations. The apostle Paul encourages us in Romans 12:2 to "be transformed by the renewing of your mind." This transformation happens when we align our thoughts with God's Word and allow His truth to shape our thinking.</p>

<h3>Practical Steps to Cast Down Vain Imaginations</h3>

<p>1. Identify negative thought patterns: Take time to reflect on your thought life and identify any recurring negative or fearful thoughts. Awareness is the first step in overcoming them.</p>
<figure id="figure-qwc92ygkhwlm5b030e"><img id="qwc92ygkhwlm5b030e" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1661098393635-350c0aedf17a?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHx2YWluJTIwaW1hZ2luYXRpb25zfGVufDB8fHx8MTY5Mzg1NzQ2OHww&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="vain imaginations" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<p>2. Replace with God's truth: Once you have identified the negative thought patterns, replace them with God's truth. Meditate on Scriptures that counteract those thoughts and declare them over your life.</p>

<p>3. Surround yourself with positive influences: Surrounding yourself with positive influences such as uplifting music, encouraging books, and like-minded believers can help combat vain imaginations. Fill your mind with things that are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8).</p>
<figure id="figure-zi5s06o1srlm5b06do"><img id="zi5s06o1srlm5b06do" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1621074704519-30264da240a6?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw5fHxwb3NpdGl2ZSUyMGluZmx1ZW5jZXN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjkzODU3NDcyfDA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="positive influences" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<p>4. Practice gratitude: Cultivating an attitude of gratitude can shift your focus from negative thoughts to the blessings in your life. Take time each day to thank God for His goodness and faithfulness.</p>

<h3>The Power of Prayer</h3>

<p>Prayer is a powerful tool in casting down vain imaginations. When negative thoughts arise, take them to God in prayer. Surrender them to Him and ask for His help in replacing them with His truth. Prayer allows us to invite God into our thought life and experience His peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:6-7).</p>

<h2>Conclusion</h2>

<p>Casting down vain imaginations is a continuous process that requires intentionality and discipline. By renewing our minds with God's truth, surrounding ourselves with positive influences, and practicing gratitude, we can take control of our thought life and experience the abundant life that God has promised us. Remember, with God's help, you have the power to cast down every vain imagination that tries to exalt itself against the knowledge of God (2 Corinthians 10:5).</p>

How to Cast Down Vain Imaginations

<p>Renewing your mind through the Word of God is an essential practice for every believer. It allows us to align our thoughts, attitudes, and perspectives with God's truth, leading to a transformed life. Here are 10 ways you can renew your mind through the Word of God:</p>

<h2>1. Daily Bible Reading</h2>
<p>Make it a habit to read the Bible every day. Set aside a specific time and place where you can focus on God's Word without distractions. As you read, ask the Holy Spirit to speak to you and reveal His truth.</p>

<h2>2. Meditate on Scripture</h2>
<p>Take time to meditate on specific verses or passages of Scripture. Reflect on their meaning and how they apply to your life. Allow God's Word to penetrate your heart and transform your thoughts.</p>

<h2>3. Memorize Scripture</h2>
<p>Memorizing Scripture helps you internalize God's Word and carry it with you wherever you go. Choose key verses that address areas of struggle or areas where you desire growth. Repeat them often and meditate on their meaning.</p>

<h2>4. Journaling</h2>
<p>Keep a journal to record your reflections, prayers, and insights as you study God's Word. Writing down your thoughts helps you process and remember what you have learned. It also provides a way to revisit and review your spiritual journey.</p>

<h2>5. Study with Others</h2>
<p>Join a Bible study group or find a mentor who can guide you in your study of the Word. Engaging in discussions and hearing different perspectives can deepen your understanding and help you apply biblical principles to your life.</p>

<h2>6. Listen to Sermons and Podcasts</h2>
<p>Take advantage of the wealth of resources available online. Listen to sermons, podcasts, and teachings that focus on the Word of God. These can provide fresh insights and perspectives, helping you renew your mind.</p>

<h2>7. Pray Scripture</h2>
<p>Praying Scripture is a powerful way to align your prayers with God's will. Use verses from the Bible as a guide for your prayers. Praying God's Word back to Him strengthens your faith and helps you renew your mind.</p>

<h2>8. Apply God's Word to Your Life</h2>
<p>It's not enough to simply read and study the Word; we must also apply it to our lives. Identify areas where you need to align your thoughts and actions with God's truth. Take intentional steps to live out what you learn.</p>

<h2>9. Seek Wisdom from Others</h2>
<p>Surround yourself with wise and mature believers who can provide guidance and accountability. Seek their advice and learn from their experiences. Their insights can help you gain a fresh perspective and renew your mind.</p>

<h2>10. Trust in God's Promises</h2>
<p>Lastly, trust in the promises of God's Word. When faced with challenges or doubts, remind yourself of the truths found in Scripture. Trust that God's Word is true and reliable, and let it renew your mind with hope and faith.</p>

10 ways to Renew your Mind Through the Word of God

<h2>Battling Shame and Guilt from a Christian Perspective</h2>

<p>Shame and guilt are emotions that can weigh heavily on our hearts and minds. They can make us feel unworthy and distant from God. As Christians, it is important to understand how to navigate these feelings and find healing and redemption in our faith. In this blog post, we will explore some biblical principles and practical steps to help us overcome shame and guilt.</p>

<h3>The Source of Shame and Guilt</h3>

<p>Shame and guilt often stem from our own mistakes, failures, or sins. We may feel ashamed of our past actions or guilty for not living up to our own expectations or God's standards. It is crucial to acknowledge that these emotions can be a healthy response to wrongdoing, as they can lead us to repentance and seeking forgiveness.</p>

<p><figure id="figure-mwdtrd6uqvlm5ar7bx"><img id="mwdtrd6uqvlm5ar7bx" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1496302912295-8d0451c184e2?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw2fHxzaGFtZSUyMGd1aWx0fGVufDB8fHx8MTY5Mzg1NzA1M3ww&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="shame guilt" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure></p>

<h3>Finding Forgiveness and Redemption</h3>

<p>As Christians, we have the assurance of forgiveness and redemption through Jesus Christ. The Bible assures us that if we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). It is important to approach God with a repentant heart, acknowledging our wrongdoings and asking for His forgiveness.</p>

<p>Through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, we are offered a fresh start and the opportunity to be reconciled with God. It is crucial to accept this gift of grace and let go of the shame and guilt that can hold us back from experiencing the fullness of God's love and purpose for our lives.</p>

<h3>Renewing Our Minds</h3>

<p>Overcoming shame and guilt requires a transformation of our thought patterns. The Bible encourages us to renew our minds and focus on things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8). This means intentionally shifting our focus from past mistakes to the truth of God's forgiveness and love.</p>

<p><figure id="figure-iqwjes14ublm5ard9e"><img id="iqwjes14ublm5ard9e" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1525909002-1b05e0c869d8?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxyZW5ld2luZyUyMG1pbmR8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjkzODU3MDYxfDA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="renewing mind" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure></p>

<h3>Community and Accountability</h3>

<p>Walking through shame and guilt alone can be overwhelming. God has designed us to live in community and to support one another. It is essential to find trustworthy Christian friends or mentors who can provide a safe space for us to share our struggles and offer guidance and encouragement.</p>

<p>Accountability is also crucial in the journey of overcoming shame and guilt. Having someone who can hold us accountable for our actions and help us stay on the right path can be instrumental in our healing process.</p>

<h3>God's Unconditional Love</h3>

<p>One of the most powerful antidotes to shame and guilt is understanding and embracing God's unconditional love for us. The Bible assures us that nothing can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39). When we truly grasp the depth of His love, we can find healing, restoration, and freedom from shame and guilt.</p>

<p><figure id="figure-26ksb6q9nlm5arjfb"><img id="26ksb6q9nlm5arjfb" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1516589178581-6cd7833ae3b2?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw4fHx1bmNvbmRpdGlvbmFsJTIwbG92ZXxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTM4NTcwNjl8MA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" alt="unconditional love" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure></p>

<h3>Walking in Freedom</h3>

<p>As Christians, we are called to live in the freedom that Christ has given us. Holding onto shame and guilt can hinder our ability to fully embrace this freedom. It is important to continually surrender our burdens to God, trusting in His forgiveness and grace.</p>

<p>Remember, shame and guilt do not define us. Through Christ, we are made new and are given the opportunity to live a life filled with joy, purpose, and freedom. Let us embrace His forgiveness, renew our minds, and walk confidently in the love and grace of our Heavenly Father.</p>

<h3>In Conclusion</h3>

<p>Overcoming shame and guilt is a journey that requires faith, self-reflection, and a reliance on God's grace. By seeking forgiveness, renewing our minds, finding support in community, embracing God's unconditional love, and walking in freedom, we can find healing and restoration. Remember, you are not alone in this battle. God is with you every step of the way, ready to extend His love, forgiveness, and grace.</p>

Battling Shame and Guilt

<h2>Flirting with Fantasy</h2><p>Fantasy can be an enjoyable escape from stress, but what happens when the coping mechanism once used to distract from worries becomes an addiction that perpetuates the very issues that prompted withdrawal in the first place? You make a choice to wake up and quit daydreaming! In this blog post we will discuss the dangers of tuning out reality to engage in excessive daydreaming.<br></p><h3>Dangers of Addictive Daydreaming</h3><figure id="figure-kbuq7i368glm59y9xw"><img id="kbuq7i368glm59y9xw" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/2HdXSiseyG8QZgEkVf9RqNwgkbBsWRoAye8BAzeJEktWo5RQb2WyIu001t0xwFrx.jpeg" alt="fantasy books" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="no-rounded" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/2HdXSiseyG8QZgEkVf9RqNwgkbBsWRoAye8BAzeJEktWo5RQb2WyIu001t0xwFrx.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><p>When I was younger, my number one goal in life was to be famous...literally. As a kid, I loved to sing and dance and I would do so obnoxiously to the annoyance of all my friends and family. We even shared an inside joke where if one of them attempted to tell me off for my random outbursts, I would scoff in fake offense, before telling them they would regret blowing me off after I got famous. The irony of all of this is even though we all laughed about it in the moment; I didn't even realize that somewhere deep inside of me I was dead serious.</p><p>For a while, living in this dream world I created helped to distract me from my real-world problems. And whenever I found myself bored, or sad with my everyday circumstances, I would slip into the comfort of my subconscious and dream up an elaborate celebrity-filled life. </p><p>But after some time, I realized in order to get the euphoric feeling I was striving for, I had to completely submerge myself in my fantasy world. This meant I constantly went over every intricate detail of the same thoughts for hours every day, just to ensure my "daydreams" were accurate and held some type of semblance to the public figures they were inspired by.<br></p><figure id="figure-22erosp6fllm59ybdl"><img id="22erosp6fllm59ybdl" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1500602517813-4142fef80b29?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyMHx8ZGF5ZHJlYW18ZW58MHx8fHwxNjkzODU0Mzc5fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="fantasy movies" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="no-rounded" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1500602517813-4142fef80b29?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyMHx8ZGF5ZHJlYW18ZW58MHx8fHwxNjkzODU0Mzc5fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Maladaptive Daydreaming</h3><p>If you are a chronic daydreamer like I was and got to the point where you were desperate to get your head out of the clouds, you may have stumbled across these words in your quest searching for solutions. Still, if you are not familiar with the term, but have experienced difficulty tuning into reality when life got tough, it may very well be the name of the thing fueling your incessant daydreaming and absentmindedness.&nbsp;</p><p>Basically, maladaptive daydreaming is a condition where a person spends more than half of their waking life immersed in a story they have created in their heads. The term was coined by Israeli professor Eli Somer, who defined the disorder as “extensive fantasy activity that replaces human interaction and or interferes with academic, interpersonal, or vocational functioning.” </p><p>Mental health experts note the condition is characterized by the following symptoms:</p><p>1. Vivid daydreams with &nbsp;characters and settings&nbsp;<br>2. Fantasizing that is triggered by real-life events<br>3. Trouble completing everyday tasks<br>4. Difficulty falling and staying asleep at night<br>5. An impulsive urge to disassociate with reality&nbsp;<br>6. Performing repetitive movements while daydreaming<br>7. Making facial expressions while daydreaming<br>8. Whispering and talking while daydreaming<br>9. Daydreaming for a long period of time&nbsp;</p><figure id="figure-6jjf8j0bylm59ycg9"><img id="6jjf8j0bylm59ycg9" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1546521677-b3a9b11bee6f?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyN3x8ZmFudGFzeSUyMHZpZGVvJTIwZ2FtZXN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjkzODU1NzA3fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="fantasy video games" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="no-rounded" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1546521677-b3a9b11bee6f?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyN3x8ZmFudGFzeSUyMHZpZGVvJTIwZ2FtZXN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjkzODU1NzA3fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Escaping Reality</h3><p>Now if you’re anything like me, your mind may be running at a million miles per hour if you have experienced any of the symptoms above. Still, I want to assure you that regardless of how you may feel:</p><p>1. You are not crazy &nbsp;<br>2. There are millions of people that are just like you</p><p>In fact, the difference between you actually slipping into insanity and nipping an unhealthy mental habit in the bud really depends on whether you choose to acknowledge that excessive daydreaming is a problem and whether or not you are willing to wake up, open your eyes and change the way you think. After all, the most accepted definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again but expecting a different result.</p><figure id="figure-6jjf8j0bylm59ycg9"></figure><figure id="figure-nka0x3joylm59ydqc"><img id="nka0x3joylm59ydqc" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1523293836414-f04e712e1f3b?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyM3x8ZmFudGFzeSUyMGVzY2FwZXxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTM4NTU3MDl8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="fantasy escape" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="no-rounded" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1523293836414-f04e712e1f3b?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyM3x8ZmFudGFzeSUyMGVzY2FwZXxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTM4NTU3MDl8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>God's view on Disassociation</h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">While God gives us dreams and vivid imaginations, he did not design us to live in our heads for hours on end –and that's exactly what maladaptive daydreaming is.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">So what does his word say?</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Romans 12:2 NIV: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Proverbs 12:11 NIV: “Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies have no sense.”</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">1 Peter 1:13 NIV: “Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.”</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Isaiah 26:3 ESV: “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.”</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”</span></p><h3>The Takeaway</h3><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Let’s set the record straight. Daydreaming is completely normal, but excessive fantasizing is a symptom of a much larger problem. Whether we want to acknowledge it or not, there are millions of people all around the world who are dragging through a less than satisfactory life and living out their desired reality through a fantasy they have cultivated in their heads. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">While this kind of behavior is expected and even tolerated in children up to a certain age, by the time a person grows out of their adolescence, they are expected to put off play-pretend and deal with whatever circumstance life brings their way. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">The elephant in the room is that a lot of grown adults struggle to do this, and just like some people turn to external substances like drugs and alcohol to fill the voids in their lives, others retract inwardly and use their minds to imagine a world abundant with the things their real life lacks. Both types of coping mechanisms are equally damaging and addictive.&nbsp;</span></p><figure id="figure-cy90qts4ulm59yhaz"><img id="cy90qts4ulm59yhaz" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1444703686981-a3abbc4d4fe3?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyfHxmYW50YXN5JTIwd29uZGVyfGVufDB8fHx8MTY5Mzg1NTcxM3ww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="fantasy wonder" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="no-rounded" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1444703686981-a3abbc4d4fe3?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyfHxmYW50YXN5JTIwd29uZGVyfGVufDB8fHx8MTY5Mzg1NTcxM3ww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>