A Christmas blog

Written by Abby Caymol | Dec 23, 2025

Is it really true that “the heart knows what it wants”? Someone might make countless plans in their heart, but do those always match what the mind thinks? Our brains have about 86 billion neurons, helping us understand and connect with our bodies. Still, when it comes to making choices, what role does the limbic system actually play?

“The heart knows what it wants,” but can a heart endure the suppression of emotions when the mind dictates otherwise? Proverbs 17:22 states, “A happy heart is good medicine, and a joyful mind brings healing, but a broken spirit dries up the bones.” The mind and heart should always work together. A person’s spirit is not broken when the heart produces happiness and contentment, and a joyful mind can heal when it remains vigilant against negative thoughts. What we allow into our minds can ultimately shape our hearts.

Finally, believers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable and worthy of respect, whatever is right and confirmed by God’s word, whatever is pure and wholesome, whatever is lovely and brings peace, whatever is admirable and of good repute; if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think continually on these things [center your mind on them, and implant them in your heart]. The things which you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things [in daily life], and the God [who is the source] of peace and well-being will be with you.

Paul emphasized the importance of incorporating these principles into our daily lives. When we do so, the Creator and source of peace—God—will be with us. Jesus is the only one known to possess everlasting peace. If you examine Philippians 4:8 closely, focusing on words such as “true,” “honorable,” “worthy of respect,” and “worthy of praise,” you’ll see that they all point to Jesus. He alone is worthy of praise, pure, faithful, and deserving of respect.

We are called to embody the character of Jesus, which means our thoughts and feelings should reflect holiness. 1 Peter 1:15-16 reminds us that we are to be holy because our Lord is holy. When we lack self-control, our mind and heart can be at odds with each other. 1 Peter 1:13 states, “Therefore, think clearly and exercise self-control.” To cultivate a joyful heart, we must maintain a sober mind. Sober-mindedness focuses on one goal: to develop the character of Jesus.

Since Jesus is the source of peace, we aim to live a peaceful life. To achieve this, we need to practice habits that promote sober-mindedness. Philippians 4:8 serves as an excellent example of how to cultivate a mindset aligned with Jesus. The Bible encourages us to focus our minds on what is good and true. A mind that is renewed in the face of challenges leads to spiritual maturity. It learns to endure even in the most difficult storms and provides clarity amidst confusion. Every word of God should be deeply rooted in the heart. When worries arise, a prepared mind and heart are ready to face and overcome the battle.

When every Word of God becomes our mindset, our hearts will align with what Philippians 4:8 encourages us to think about. By continually focusing on these things, we will experience fundamental transformation within ourselves. Our minds are influenced by our surroundings, but if those influences are worldly and do not glorify God, we need to practice self-control. The key to avoiding conformity to this world is to reject worldly trends and remain set apart from carnality. When our minds are not consumed by worldly pursuits, our hearts will be positioned in the right place. Romans 12:2 also advises us not to conform to the customs of this world but to be transformed by renewing our minds, fostering spiritual maturity, and concentrating on godly values and ethical attitudes.

Jesus teaches us to hate what is evil and to hold on tightly to what is good (Romans 12:9). His ultimate goal is to provide salvation, which comes with holiness and a sober mind, for all His children who choose to accept Him. The heart truly knows what it desires, and if Jesus resides in your heart, you will find peace. Jesus is the key to achieving effective teamwork, a sober mind, and a joyful heart. 

This Christmas, may you experience a renewed mind and heart as we navigate the days ahead. May the fruit of the Spirit dwell in your mind, heart, and soul, bringing you a peaceful spirit blessed by God.