Science and scripture both agree that we have the ability to take control of our thoughts. In brain research, “neuroplasticity” is the ability of the brain to reorganize its transmitters.  In scripture we are to “bring into captivity every thought” (2 Cor. 10:5) and to “be transformed by the renewing of our mind” (Romans 12:2).


Let’s look into three sections of our brain… the neocortex, limbic system and brain stem. The neocortex (frontal lobe) is responsible for our reasoning, problem solving, clarity and thinking skills. The limbic system houses our emotions/feelings, memory, thoughts, choices, will and five senses (sight, hearing, taste, touch and smell). The brain stem regulates breathing, muscle tension, blood pressure and heart rate.


Information comes in to our brain from our five senses and our memory. This data is scanned through the limbic system. The limbic system then transmits this information to the neocortex/frontal lobe or to the brain stem.


When our limbic system detects hurt, pain, trauma, abuse or confusion, this data transfers down to our brain stem. The brain stem then triggers a release of adrenaline, noradrenaline and cortisol, which results in an increase of heart rate, blood pressure, muscle tension, shallow breathing, etc.


Our neocortex and brain stem operate from the transmitters of the limbic system (the part of the brain, which houses our feelings, emotions, will, choices, memories, five senses and our thoughts). We have the ability to control and reorganize these transmitters, which in return help us to interact rather than react to our feelings and emotions.


It is a wonderful thing to witness science and scripture validating that we have the ability to “take every thought captive…”


Vickie Hodges is a UPCI licensed minister. She has 35 years experience in Early Childhood Education and Brain Development Research.  She is the author of LIFE (Living In Freedom EVERYDAY) Recovery Series—Recovery for Damaged Emotions and Unhealed Memories. She is a trainer and seminar/conference speaker and can be reached at or 281/489-0055

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