This past week, I had been reading a book about psychology, specifically about how to have a healthy mind. In it, the author shared some principles and disciplines that would prevent or help correct neurotic behavior. I laughed as I read the list. The author’s brilliant ideas were plagiarized. Jesus had taught them two thousand years ago.

Although I did not find the information to be original, I did find it helpful. It reminded of healthy behaviors and attitudes. It also reminded me that God knows what is best and I really need to listen. Here are the plagiarized ideas and how the lessons I learned from them.

“Then he [Jesus] said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23, NIV).

Principle 1: Delayed Gratification is Healthy

Jesus knew that if we did not control ourselves, by denying our desires and passions, they would consume us. This does not mean that we never enjoy anything, it means delayed gratification. For example, we don’t eat everything in the refrigerator today. We delay our gratification and eat what we need rather than everything we want. Or, we don’t charge everything today; we save and plan so our finances do not become burdensome.

In essence, we control our passions, they don’t control us. In this way, we are free to follow Christ rather than becoming a slave to our passions. This saves us from excess stress on our mind. Less mental stress means a healthier psyche. A healthier psyche in turn allows us to have better self-control.

Principle 2: Be Responsible

Another principle is taking up one’s own cross daily. Simply stated, be responsible. Be responsible for yourself. That entails being accountable for your actions, words, thoughts and choices. But responsibility doesn’t stop there. It also entails dealing with the actions, words, thoughts and choices of others if they have affected you.

Many people live under the false assumption that until the perpetrator of the sinful act takes responsibility nothing can be done to improve the situation. That is not true. We can stop living like victims if we take responsibility for our heart, mind, soul and emotions. Taking up our cross means that we deal with the things that have been done to us. We are right in thinking that the sinner was wrong to sin. But we also must realize that they have sinned and the issue must be dealt with. If it has affected us, we must be the ones to deal with it. Take responsibility, not for their sin, but do take responsibility for getting the help you need to heal.

Principle 3: We Need Faith

Jesus and the psychologist agreed on another principle. Faith and trust are healthy when appropriately placed. We shouldn’t trust everyone, but if we trust no one, we miss out on emotional connections and love. We were created to enjoy community. We were created to love. So Jesus sums up the plan for healthy living as his disciples with one more thought. Follow Him. He is trustworthy. Our faith and hope and trust will never be missed placed if they are placed in the Almighty God.

After reading the whole book by a knowledgeable and learned doctor, I realized Jesus had said the same thing and it only took one sentence. If I want a healthy mind and life I realize I must listen to the wisdom of Jesus. “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23, NIV)