A Biblical Perspective of Black and White Thinking
365 Mental Health Devotional Challenge: Day 109
Devotional
Habakkuk 3:17–18 “Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.”
Educational Coping Skill: Holding Two Truths
In the field of Psychology, we often discuss the negative impact of “black-and-white” or “all-or-nothing” thinking. During difficult seasons, the brain tries to simplify the situation by categorizing it as “good” or “bad”. However, we all know life is much more complex than this. A tool frequently used to combat this negative thinking is call “Holding Two Truths”. This skill teaches the brain that two completely opposite things can be true at the exact same time. Helping the brain come to a more grounded reality and conclusion.
Instead of using the word “but,” which often cancels out your feelings, you use the word “and.”
- Instead of: “I am really struggling, but I know God is good.”
- Try: “I am really struggling, and I know God is good.”
This small shift in language tells your nervous system that your pain is valid, real, and allowed to exist right alongside your hope.
Faith Connection
Habakkuk 3:17-18 is a beautiful example of the skill “Holding Two Truths”. Instead of sugar coating the situation, he gives the honest truth of the devastating times around him. However, he also says “yet I will rejoice in the Lord.”. We can see Habakkuk holding two truths, pain and faith. Biblical joy is not toxic positivity. It can recognize the pain one is feeling while also allowing the truth of God to prevail. So today if you are feeling like Habakkuk, remind yourself you are allowed to grieve in the pain, but also rejoice in the One who has concurred the world.
Reflection Question
When you look at your life right now what is one hard thing you are carrying and what is one good truth about God you can hold onto at the exact same time?
Prayer
Dear God, thank You that I do not have to pretend everything is perfect to come to You. I confess that when things go wrong, my mind wants to believe that everything is completely ruined. Help me to practice holding two truths today. Give me the strength to be honest about my pain and my empty fields, while still choosing to anchor my joy in Your unfailing love. Amen.
Closing Thoughts
You have completed Day 109 out of 365 Days of our 2026 Mental Health Devotional Challenge. I hope you enjoyed today’s educational coping skills. I am doing a lot of work trying to improve the site and to write the best content for you all! So thank you for sticking this through with me! Only 250+ days to go!
Don’t forget to leave a comment and subscribe!
Think Like Christ Mental Health
Disclaimer
Educational and Spiritual Support Only I am not your therapist. The information provided on this blog—including book recommendations, worksheets, biblical insights, coping skills, or any other content on this blog—is for educational, informational, and spiritual encouragement purposes only. No Professional Relationship Interacting with this content, including leaving comments or sending direct messages, does not create a therapist-client relationship. This blog is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Seek Professional Help Always seek the advice of your physician or a licensed mental health provider regarding any medical or psychological condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here. If you are in a crisis, please contact your local emergency services or a crisis hotline immediately.