As an Inmate Thinketh | Freedom of the Mind is Liberty Over the Matter | Homily 1

 

3:22 Introduction to

As an Inmate Thinketh—Introduction
By Rev. Nicholas Sybrowsky

Freedom of the mind is liberty over the matter (Note 1).

Invocation

• Opening prayer; Recite the Lord’s Prayer to yourself, if you're reading this with someone else present, lead them by praying out loud (Mt. 6:9-15 ESV).

    Many find themselves trapped by regret or self-pity, but nature teaches us a different lesson—one of resilience and forward motion.

“I never saw a wild thing, sorry for itself.  A small bird will drop frozen dead from a bough without ever having felt sorry for itself.”  -D. H. Lawrence. (Cite 2) (Note 3) 

• “Brian Banks”, a 2018 biographical drama based on the true story of Brian Banks, a high school football star who was falsely accused of rape, convicted, and sent to prison. After his release, he fought to clear his name and was eventually exonerated. He later pursued his dream of playing in the NFL. Brian Banks is a powerful story of resilience and justice. His determination to clear his name and pursue his dreams is truly inspiring.  As a Man Thinketh is a profound book about the power of thought and personal responsibility, and Brian Banks’ story is a testament to that very principle. His perseverance and mindset in overcoming adversity mirror many of James Allen’s teachings on shaping one’s destiny through disciplined thought (Note 5). 

· •     The fascinating connection between Brian Bank’s story & the topic of thought offers help, hope and healing to our situation as we gather for church.  

Introduction

• Welcome to this journey about Jesus Christ and the peace of mind that comes from Him.  Today, we explore how our thoughts shape our reality—and how Christ renews our minds. 

• There is great power in accurate thinking.  (Note 4)

• Considering the challenges we face, James Allen’s timeless wisdom in As a Man Thinketh offers profound insights into how our thoughts shape our character and destiny.  Having explored the seven key principles from this transformative book, I believe three of them hold particular significance for our gathering today.  Let us delve into these ideas together (Cite 5, Note 5).

Here are the 3 key concepts:

• Thought Shapes Reality – Allen emphasizes that a person’s thoughts directly influence their circumstances.  A noble mind fosters a noble life, while negative thinking leads to struggles and limitations (Aligns with Romans 12:2).  Instead of finding the perfect philosophy and then practicing adoration of knowledge, (phil-o-sophy, which translated means “love-knowledge”) you can practice the first commandment shared with Moses, to love God.  This love for God can help us with the application of the next key concept.

• The Power of Self-Mastery – Through intentional thinking, one can control their emotions, shape their future, and develop resilience in adversity (Taking thoughts captive - 2 Corinthians 10:5).  Paul practiced comparing the thoughts in his mind to scripture, in this he found great freedom from ideas that lead him astray from the moral compass of God’s righteousness.  On to the next concept from Allen’s book.

• Vision and Purpose Drive Achievement – Having a clear purpose and positive vision paves the way for meaningful success (Christ-centered living).  Paul succeeded in getting the message of Jesus Christ to us in the 21st century because he lived with God’s vision and purpose for his life.

    In the confines of walls, the way you shape your thoughts directly influences your daily experience.  That’s why renewing your mind in Christ is essential.

    

    Because you have access to the Bible may I suggest observation of some deep parallels between these philosophical ideas of James Allen and some biblical teachings.  Because Allen was a student of the Bible very vast are the options to observe but let me direct your attention especially to the concepts shared through letters from the Apostle Paul, formerly known as Saul.  The concepts of renewing the mind (Romans 12:2), taking every thought captive (2 Corinthians 10:5) and Paul’s life example described succinctly with (Philippians 1:21).

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”  

- Rom 12:2 ESV (Cite 6)

“We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ,” 

- 2Co 10:5 ESV (Cite 6)

 “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” - Phl 1:21 ESV (Cite 6)

Summary & Conclusion

    Freedom of the mind is liberty over the matter.  You can wallow in self-pity or do what you can within the boundaries of your confinement to stop taking pleasure in feeling sorry for yourself.  Thought Shapes Reality, The Power of Self-Mastery and Vision and Purpose Drive Achievement these 3 ideas applied will lead to freedom through Jesus Christ.  Daily reading God’s Word will promote regeneration through the renewing of your mind. 

  

    Understanding the profound power of accurate thinking.  Thinking with accuracy, rather than guessing, strengthens the principle that true change begins within.  Christ’s teachings & connection have the power to transform human nature itself, enabling you to become a promoter for positive change.  While phil-sophy, or self-help ideas may present intriguing contrast, they ultimately lack the Christian transformative power that comes from a genuine connection with Christ.  Jesus can deliver you from that which causes you to become locked up.  By embracing this understanding, you can strive to be the change you wish to see in the world, working towards shaping the mind & your environment for the betterment of all.  Jesus Christ delivers, sanctifies and charges us with help, hope and healing that empowers us to better contribute to our surroundings.

Exhortation & Call to Action

Your environment doesn’t define you—Christ transforms you from within, and through Him, you can reshape your life.

 ‘Christ changes men, who then change their environment.  The world would shape human behavior, but Christ can change human nature.’ 

-Ezra Taft Benson (ETB Cite 7 & Note 7)

1.  Seek to acquire accurate thinking.  With the help of the Holy Spirit give up the “yoke of slavery to sin” and take up the yoke of imputed righteousness.  The yoke of Jesus Mt. 11:28. “…learn from [Jesus Christ] …”. 
2.  Christ doesn’t just change behavior—He transforms human nature.  Team up with the Lord and actively shape a plan for true freedom—starting with your thoughts today. The work begins now, and its impact will last beyond the walls of confinement. 
3.  Freedom of the mind is liberty over the matter.  Choose today to embrace Christ’s renewing power.  These are great examples of how faith, perseverance, and the right mindset can reshape lives.  What is your mind-set? What will your next thought be—one that enslaves, or one that sets you free?

Benediction

    • At [this time] as a Benediction of prayer let us pray.  [In the words that] “Jesus declared himself according to the Apostles Mathew & Luke, "I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will.  All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.  [Jesus said to them and now to you], Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." - Mat 11:25-30 ESV (Luk 10:21, 22 )

To my dedicated readers, Dear Friends in Faith,

    May I take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to each of you. Your presence, encouragement, and shared devotion to the Gospel make this journey all the more meaningful. Whether you engage with Covenant Harvest Blog through reading, sharing, or reflecting, you are part of a mission that extends beyond words—it’s about building a faith-driven community that uplifts and strengthens one another.

    May God’s blessings abound in your life, filling your days with peace, wisdom, and unwavering hope. As we walk this path together, I invite you to actively participate in the conversation:

• Join the discussion in the comments—share insights, prayers, or personal testimonies that uplift others.

• Follow & engage on social media to stay connected and spread the message to those who need it.

• Sign up for updates to receive faith-filled reflections straight to your inbox.

• Share the content with friends and family who may find encouragement in the message.

    Let’s continue to grow in faith and community, lifting one another up in Christ. If there’s a topic you’d love to explore or a prayer request on your heart, feel free to reach out. Your voice matters, and together, we can make an impact.

May God continue to guide and bless you, strengthening your faith and renewing your spirit each day.

Blessings to you always!

Earnestly, Nicholas

Sources Citations, Credits & Notes

1. Note.  Jesus Teaches the Fear of God Mat 10:27-31; Luke 12:3–7).

2. Self-Pity poem.  All poetry.com

3. Note.  Other useful points of interest relevant to this topical message:  Pro 23:7 (KJV); 19:22, 23; Mat 9:3,4 (Jesus Heals a Paralytic) (Mar 2:1–12; Luk 5:17–26); Luk 7:39 A Sinful Woman Forgiven (Parable of the Merciful Money Lender) Luk 7:47.  Deeper Word Search: “plan” & “plans” ESV Blue Letter Bible.org.  Microsoft Bing “as a man thinketh scripture” (6/13/25).

4. Note.  Accurate Thinking.  Napoleon Hill’s 29/30 Reasons for failure.  29-Guessing Instead of Thinking.  Think & Grow Rich, Keys to Success.

5. As a Man Thinketh by James Allen is public domain.  Internet Archive & Project Gutenberg.  Note, Quick search in Microsoft Bing.  Author of From Passion to Peace (6/13/25).  

Retracing Purpose: How a Film, a Book, and a Prison Cell Stirred My Spirit

I didn’t set out to discover As a Man Thinketh—but God has a way of dropping clarity into unexpected places.

I first encountered the book through a scene in Brian Banks, a film about a young man whose dreams were stolen by injustice and reclaimed through perseverance. In one poignant moment, a fellow inmate hands him a small volume—James Allen’s As a Man Thinketh. That moment echoed far beyond the screen. I paused the movie, rewound the scene, and started investigating.

That search led me to the text. And what I found within its pages… felt almost as if it had been written just for me. Its message—rooted in Proverbs 23:7—reminded me of the spiritual battlefield of the mind, where thoughts become roots, and roots bear fruit. In Allen’s words, I heard the Gospel’s quiet affirmation: “As he thinketh in his heart, so is he.”

It wasn’t just a book. It was a confirmation. A reminder. A kindling.  More from Brian Banks here Building Resilience.

6. Scripture references from useful tool presented by Blue Letter Bible.org (BLB)

7. Quote of Benson by Quote Interpretation 6 Plato’s Mirror.com and NOTE Franklin Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People pg. 309 

“Inside Out Again”. “The Lord works from the inside out.  The world works from the outside in.  The world would take people out of the slums.  Christ takes the slums out of people, and then they take themselves out of the slums.  The world would mold men by changing their environment.  Christ changes men, who then change their environment.  The world would shape human behavior, but Christ can change human nature." -ETB 

• Big thank you to the ministry partners in our community who make Jail Ministry plausible.  The County Sherriff & Warden, the Correction Officers, Montezuma Ministry Alliance and jail chaplain Shelby Smith.