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“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.” Romans 2:12

The term “brainwashed” typically has a very negative connotation. In fact, there’s been a lot of talk over the past eight or so years about media “brainwashing” people with false information—trying to persuade us of one “truth” or another, depending on who you listen to. And with the rise of social media “influencers” and platform algorithms, it’s easy to be convinced that certain information is true… “See! Everyone agrees with me, just look at the ‘evidence’ of my incessant feed!” Hence, we fully embrace what we’re thinking. Our minds are sure.

Until an opposing viewpoint slips through. Then, we glimpse the other side’s “facts” and start seeing more of the same when the algorithm pivots. And confusion sets in.

This example holds true for cultural trends, political leanings, health and fitness information—you name it, there’s an opinion that can thoroughly wash over your brain. And when it comes to some topics, the “sides” are so contrasting that it seems like there are literally two distinct realities! (See carnivore vs. vegan.) With all the over-information, discerning what’s truly true is really hard.

Thankfully, there is One who never changes (Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8; James 1:17)…and there is His Word that is living and true (2 Timothy 3:16-17; John 17:17; Psalm 119). With God, sweet friend, there is no confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33).

It’s so easy for our thoughts to be muddled by all the noise of this world. Our enemy, the father of lies hisses daily in our ears, “Did God really say…?” So, we must fill our mind with the Truths and Promises of God, standing firm in who we are in Christ. To fully embrace this Word-driven brainwashing, our mind will be renewed and our very soul transformed. This is a command and a promise.

Colossians 3:1-3: “Set your minds on the things that are above, not on the things that are on earth” (v2).

Ephesians 4:17-32: “You are to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth” (vs 23-24).

2 Corinthians 10:3-6: “We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ” (v5).

Philippians 4:8-9: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, think about these things. As for the things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.”

So, what are you filling your head with? Endless social media clips and doomscrolling? Mind-numbing video games? YouTube rabbit holes? Stop the lies and confusion…be brainwashed with God’s truth and know His peace.

“Lord, amid all the noise—and lies—of this world, help me keep my eyes and focus on You and Your Word. Brainwash me with Your Truth!”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life