In his presidential address to the American Psychological Association in 1998, the internationally renowned psychologist, Martin Seligman, called for a new positive focus in psychology. While he recognized and applauded the great strides that had occurred in the treatment of mental illness, he envisioned "a reoriented science that emphasizes the understanding and building of the most positive qualities of an individual: optimism, courage, work ethic, future-mindedness, interpersonal skill, the capacity for pleasure and insight, and social responsibility."

One result of this new emphasis in psychology is a growing understanding and appreciation for the connection between our thoughts and our well being--our minds and our bodies. What researchers in the social sciences are discovering is that certain patterns of thinking are associated with a variety of positive outcomes. For example, these scientists offer evidence suggesting that individuals who are grateful report fewer physical complaints, spend more time exercising, have more positive feelings, and they sleep better. Further, if we believe that we are valuable and capable, we will experience more happiness, eat better, and engage more frequently in health-promoting behaviors. Optimism is also associated with a number of positive healthy outcomes, including a greater sense of well-being, and a more active approach to problem solving. The take home message from this line of research is clear--the way that we think about life has a powerful impact on how we live, act, and feel.

For those whose lives are animated by the Christian faith, these patterns of thinking are not foreign or surprising. Our value, our gratitude, our confidence, and our optimism are more than platitudes or self-help pop-psychology. Rather, they represent a fundamentally foundational reality. Our value is secure because while we were yet sinners Christ died for us. We know that we are capable because we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. We can be optimistic because He is intimately involved in our lives and holds the future in His hands. We are grateful because all good and perfect gifts come from above. At the end of the day, the foundation of a healthy thought life is based on a worldview which espouses that the One who holds the universe in His hands also knows the number of hairs on our head.

Allow me to make this more relevant and individual by asking you to do your own experiment. For the next few days, pause at various times during your day and spend a few minutes chronicling your experiences in a journal. Don't be overly analytic or critical--simply observe and record significant events along with their associated thoughts and feelings. After you have journaled for a few days, review what you have written looking for the patterns of thinking that emerge. Do you find that you are optimistic, expecting that good things are in your future? Maybe you are overly hard on yourself, belittling yourself whenever the chance arises. Could it be that you are grateful, living mindfully aware of what you have been given? Are your thoughts hypercritical, undermining your confidence? Regardless of what you learn from this exercise; use this new self-understanding to your benefit. Cherish and reinforce the thoughts that help make you well and replace the ones that are dragging you down.

Our minds are one of the greatest allies that we have in our efforts to live well. When we come to believe that we are valuable, capable, and blessed, and when we come to expect good things, our lives are changed for the better. The result may very well be greater health, a profound sense of well-being, and just maybe the abundant life that is intended for those who follow Christ.