Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.—Psalm 43:5 (NIV)

I recently read an article in a psychology magazine that focused on self-talk, that inner voice most of us have that offers a running commentary throughout the day. This combination of conscious thoughts and subconscious beliefs helps our brain interpret and process our experiences. Positive, encouraging self-talk can help people combat fear and grow in confidence. Negative self-talk can lead people into depression, convincing them that they are a failure and that their situation will never improve. Like many people, I tend to hear the latter. 

Centuries ago, the psalm writers knew how to correct unhelpful self-talk. They often began by venting negative emotions but then deliberately shifted their focus. They rehearsed God’s past goodness and His promises for the future, often ending by stating an intention to trust and praise God. Like the psalmists, I can change my self-talk and change my perspective. After admitting my fear, disappointment, or anger in prayer, I can remind myself that thanks to Jesus, I am forgiven, free, protected, and unconditionally loved. I don’t have to let negative thoughts and feelings dictate my mood; I can choose to focus on truths that uplift my soul and give myself something good to talk about. 

Faith Step: As you go through your day, watch for negative self-talk. Be prepared to replace each of those thoughts with a Bible verse or statement that expresses what Jesus thinks about you.