Hello, Everyone. This is Chaplain Sung Kim. I am Deputy CMD CH in the 63d Readiness Division. I pray you are well.

Do you ever struggle with negative thinking? If you have a harsh inner critic or get caught in worry, stress, anxiety, depression or wrestle with low self-worth, then you know some of the symptoms first hand.

Negative thinking patterns can have a strong and sometimes devastating impact on our relationships, our health, our work and our lives.

Peace Pilgrim says, "If you realize how powerful your thoughts are, you would never think a negative thought." 

One of SGM sent me this: When I look at that statement, I thought to myself, wow, that's kinda bold at the end.  I have to be honest because I don't think it is possible to never think a negative thought.  But I will tell you that it is possible to stop negative thinking. 

There is a difference.  A negative thought is just a thought until you dwell on it.  Don't dwell on negative thoughts because it then becomes negative thinking.  We can't avoid negative thoughts but we can stop negative thinking because negative thinking is like fertilizing weeds in your garden.

Most of us spend a lot of time inside our own mind — worrying about the future, replaying events in the past, and generally focusing on the parts of life that leave us dissatisfied. While common, negative or unwanted thoughts can prevent you from enjoying experiences, distract you from focusing on what's important, and drain your energy. They can also make you feel anxious and depressed.

The good news is that with dedicated practice, you can replace negative thinking patterns with positive thinking patterns. Here are practical ways.

  1. Challenge negative thoughts. Whenever you have a distorted thought, stop and evaluate whether it is accurate.
  2. Practice gratitude. Research shows that feeling grateful has a big impact on your levels of positivity and happiness.
  3. Focus on your strengths. It's human nature to dwell on the negative and overlook the positive. The more you can practice focusing on your strengths and not dwelling on mistakes you've made, the easier it will be to feel positive about yourself and the direction your life is taking.
  4. Seek out professional support if you are unable to manage your thoughts or find they are interfering with your ability to meet your daily responsibilities or enjoy life.

You may feel like you have struck out. We have all struck out in some areas. But the good news is that you don’t have to justify it somehow, or call failure by another name, because even though you may have messed up, there is always another chance to begin anew.

If you are struggling with negative thinking, I can tell you from my own experience that it is possible to turn things around, cultivate inner peace, and live a meaningful and fulfilling life.

Philippians 4:7 says: “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” God's word is filled with the truth of who we are, who He is and His power. Consistently meditate on His word and use it to fight negative thoughts.

The power of God is stronger than ANYTHING and when you use His weapon to fight back those negative thoughts, you will win! Rest on Him, He will get your mind right!

Have a blessed day! Blood and Fire!

 

Here is the direct email and phone number for anyone requesting support from the 63d RD Chaplain office,

usarmy.usarc.63-rsc.list.chaplain-all-users@mail.mil

650-526-9668