Mindfulness

While often used interchangeably, mindfulness is paying attention to the present moment, while meditation is a tool used to cultivate or produce that state of mindfulness.

Mindfulness is based on Buddhism, involving intentional self-awareness of the here-and-now sensations, thoughts, and feelings to achieve mental stillness and balance, often employing yoga postures, breathing exercises, or chanting. This practice has become widely recognized in contemporary culture, enabling people to tap into a ‘power’ to reach

This activity can open a person to the wrong spirit realm

their goals through a non-judgemental mental approach to help reduce stress and improve focus. This ideology assumes we can create inner peace through our efforts, yet only God can meet our deepest needs with His peace that can exist in all circumstances for it is only through the power of the Holy Spirit who sets our minds free to think truthfully can we know true peace (Isa 26:3; Jn 14:27; Phil 4:7).

In contrast, as believers, we have the privilege of rather than just looking within ourselves to gain awareness or insight, we can commune with God through Bible study, prayer, and worship of Him. This focusing on God and

Am I connecting with God?

the richness of life we experience in Christ is termed Christian meditation (as opposed to secular meditation) and enables us to bring our thoughts into submission to Him and renew our minds with the truth (Josh 1:8; Rom 12:2; 2 Cor 10:5). We should also be mindful or attentive to our surroundings and emotions, recognizing God’s handiwork in creation (Ps 8:3,4, 143:5). We are to invite God to search our hearts and reveal to us what is not pleasing to Him, besides regularly examining ourselves and addressing any ungodly issues (Ps 139:23,24; 2 Cor 13:5). We are not to worry or try and handle life independent of God but include Him in all areas and then we can be confident of His hand on our lives – mindful of His presence with us continually (Prov 3:5,6; Mt 6:25-34; Phil 4:6-9; 1 Thes 5:17; Heb 13:5). Such an approach is not escaping from reality but having the mind of Christ and evaluating everything considering our relationship with God and Jesus, instead of just paying attention only to yourself (1 Cor 2:16).

Mindfulness is only compatible with a biblical worldview when it is rooted in Scripture and focuses on connecting with God so any approached must be done in a wise, biblical way (Ps 1:1,2, 63:6; Heb 12:2). All Christians are called to be consciously mindful of the benefits of being united to Christ and the presence of His Spirit and allow this to move us toward others with compassion (Phil 2:1-5)

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We wish you well in your Christian life.

On behalf of the team,

Bill