Freethinking is Not What You Think

Freethinker- one who forms opinions on the basis of reason, independent of authority or tradition, esp. one whose religious opinions differ from established belief (Random House Webster’s College Dictionary, 1991).

The world promotes the freethinker. Is there really such a thing?

We like the freedom to think whatever we want to think. But is freethinking liberating or another method of control?

Is it possible to possess your own thoughts?

How much of your thoughts are influenced by the opinions of stereotypes, society standards, or the views of someone else?

My husband claims I think too much. On the other hand, I often wonder if he ever thinks at all. Ladies, you know what I’m talking about.

However, I must admit my husband has a point with my over-thinking problem. I tend to over think everything from what blouse to wear to what to cook for dinner. Without warning, my mind spins in another direction finding itself consumed by outlandish worries and many of the most impossible circumstances.

My thinking is anything but free.

And my over-thinking stems from common misconceptions about how others perceive my choices and whether or not I’ll be accepted based on their views and what they think about each choice.

Freethinking is not what you think.

Someone or something controls your thinking, until what you should think is far from what you’re thinking.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things (Philippians 4:8).

1. Our thoughts aren’t always true.

2. Our thoughts lack nobility.

3. Our thoughts are often wrong.

4. Our thoughts are anything but pure.

5. Our thoughts can be ugly.

6. Our thoughts aren’t always admirable.

7. Our thoughts can’t be described as that remarkable or deserving of praise.

Within humanity, our thoughts can never be powerful enough to discern illusion from reality. We are too self-centered and our educated minds will never comprehend truth on its own.

Freethinking requires capturing thoughts to conquer the enemy warring against them. [tweetable]

It’s a requirement that goes beyond your thought processes to penetrate the heart–a spiritual awareness we can never create on our own.

Casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5).

Recently, I mentioned this freedom found within God’s Truth:

Liberal thoughts enslaves us. God’s boundaries set us free. [tweetable]

Freethinking can never be found in thinking what you want to think. Rather, freethinking begins in a mind that has been set free. (John 8:32)

Have you found the freedom to think? Share with us your comments.