In 2016, I finally decided to go to college. My two youngest children were in middle school, and it was time to further my education. When exploring what I wanted to do, I decided to start with human services and then psychology. I received my Bachelor’s degree in psychology in 2021. I loved learning about psychology, and it was easy to identify the hand of my Creator in the formation of the human brain.
Psychology And Christianity
As a Christian, I believe the Bible when it says humans were created in His image. Our emotions, thoughts, hormones, chemicals, and everything else were given to us by our perfect Creator.
Of course, it is evident that while our Creator is perfect, we do not live in a perfect world. But that doesn’t change the idea that being created in His image means that not only is our physical body His creation, but so is the inner workings of the mind.
As I studied psychology more, I was surprised by the controversy surrounding Christianity and psychology. But I think Christians who are afraid or cautious of psychology are truly missing out on understanding themselves and others better.
On the topic of whether or not Christians should trust psychology, Got Questions states:
Psychology can give us tips on how to attain desired outcomes in this life, but it cannot tell us what leads to eternal life. Psychology can help us understand the factors that influence our desires and the likely consequences of acting on them, but it cannot tell us whether it is right to act on those desires. Psychology can describe interpersonal interactions and provide us with insight into managing our relationships, but it cannot change our hearts to love as God loves.
This approach to psychology is helpful. Learning more about psychology will help us mature in our faith and grow in our relationships.
National Book Lover’s Day: Three Nonfiction Books About Psychology And Christianity
National Book Lover’s Day is August 9th, and I would like to share a few of my favorite books on psychology and Christianity. I have read these books from cover to cover, and every single one of them has changed my life.
Anatomy of the Soul: Surprising Connections between Neuroscience and Spiritual Practices That Can Transform Your Life and Relationships by Curt Thompson
One of my favorite quotes from this book:
“even though you cannot change the events of your story, you can change the way you experience your story.” – Curt Thompson, Anatomy Of The Soul
I remember crying during the introduction of this book, which I have read multiple times. Typically, I like to start books that sound interesting, but I am also known for stopping them and never reading all of them if I get bored or find another book to read. But this one is a book I turn to often. The title doesn’t sound too much like a Christian book, but it is. This book is a great starting point if you want to dive into psychology, neuroscience, and Christianity!
Emotionally Healthy Spirituality: It’s Impossible to Be Spiritually Mature, While Remaining Emotionally Immature by Peter Scazzero
One of my favorite quotes from this book:
“Ignoring our emotions is turning our back on reality. Listening to our emotions ushers us into reality. And reality is where we meet God. . . . Emotions are the language of the soul. They are the cry that gives the heart a voice. . .” – Peter Scazzero, Emotionally Health Spirituality.
One of the things Christians are afraid of when it comes to psychology is their emotions. Emotions can be powerful, and I think being afraid to address them is normal. It can be scary to feel because those emotions go deep, and they can feel like they will overwhelm us and take away our control.
This book is a great read: it addresses the issue of spiritual maturity. Jesus is your prime example, and He was emotionally mature. It takes a lot of discipline and strength to be like Jesus and take up your cross daily.
You have to understand the role that emotions play in your life. First, you need to be able to feel your emotions, talk about them, address them, and control them. If you want to become emotionally healthy, I highly recommend this book!
Boundaries: When to Say Yes, How to Say No to Take Control of Your Life by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend
One of my favorite quotes from this book:
“Boundaries define us. They define what is me and what is not me. A boundary shows me where I end, and someone else begins, leading me to a sense of ownership. Knowing what I am to own and take responsibility for gives me freedom. Taking responsibility for my life opens up many different options. Boundaries help us keep the good in and the bad out. Setting boundaries inevitably involves taking responsibility for your choices. You are the one who makes them. You are the one who must live with the consequences. And you are the one who may be keeping yourself from making the choices you could be happy with. We must own our own thoughts and clarify distorted thinking.” – Dr. Henry Cloud, Boundaries.
As Christians, our biggest hurdle to overcome will always be boundaries. Jesus has boundaries. God has boundaries. Boundaries are Biblical. However, as Christians, we think that saying “no” is bad, especially if we say “no” to something good.
But the moment you became a Christian, you had the opportunity to set boundaries. You quickly learned that you suddenly didn’t like certain things or want to be in certain situations. Maybe you had to let go of friendships, TV shows, or the music you were listening to.
It probably wasn’t easy to let them go because it felt like you were losing your identity, but you had a new identity in Christ, which was your motivation.
However, saying no is sometimes harder, and you may feel it is going against what God has called you to do. I will be the first one to tell you having boundaries is not easy, especially for Christians. But I also know that boundaries are Biblical, and honestly, the psychology of boundaries will strengthen your faith and testimony.
This is not only one of my favorite books on psychology and Christianity, but I love any book by Dr. Cloud. He has many great teachings, and if you are looking to explore psychology further, I highly recommend starting with just about any book he wrote!
Now It’s Your Turn
Nation Book Lover’s Day is August 9th, and I would love to know your favorite book. Please share the title and your favorite quote from the book in the comments below.
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