Let’s talk brain power. Our brains control the functions of our bodies and it is important to build and support optimum brain activity. I have compiled a list of some of the ways we can support brain health and build brain power, all of which are supported by scripture.

Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp. Psalm 149:3 (KJV)

Dancing stimulates the brain, helps with movement, and improves your mood. It stimulates brain activity with nerve responses. It helps balance and coordination. And when we dance unto the Lord, it releases the joy of the Lord to us.

Speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, Ephesians 5:19 (NIV)

Music affects us spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically. Research has shown that the same part of the brain that is related to pleasure is also stimulated by music. Positive, Christian music lifts our spirits and helps our overall performance.

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. Colossians 3:16 (KJV)

And David spake to the chief of the Levites to appoint their brethren to be the singers with instruments of musick, psalteries and harps and cymbals, sounding, by lifting up the voice with joy. I Chronicles 15:16 (KJV)

Singing to the Lord lifts us above circumstances and ministers to us and God. When we worship God with song, we get into His presence, which transforms us. It releases feel-good chemicals into the bloodstream called endorphins. And singing helps with memory. Many things that we might have trouble remembering are easier to retain if we sing them. I have learned a lot of scripture over the years by singing them.

Sing unto him a new song; play skilfully with a loud noise. Psalm 33:3 (KJV)

Playing an instrument helps us to concentrate, think, and it enhances memory. It also releases creativity and supports hand-eye coordination. If you do not know how to play an instrument, I highly recommend learning. You don’t have to become a concert-level musician, but you can learn enough to worship God in your personal time with Him. Costly, professional lessons are not needed- just go to YouTube to find tutorials that can teach you. And good, used instruments can be purchased online.

He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church. I Corinthians 2:4 (KJV)

Praying in tongues will build you up, releasing endorphins and stimulating the nervous system, which casues our brains to release certain hormones. As a result, our immune systems are built up and our spirit and souls are strengthened. Tongues supports us spirit, soul, and body.

Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. I Corinthians 10:31 (KJV)

Proper diet and nutrition makes us think and feel better, which helps us perform better. Getting the proper amounts of water, fruits, vegetables, healthy oils, lean free-range meats and fish is key to optimum physical and brain health. There are a number of good books on nutrition on the market. One reputable authority on the subject is Dr. Don Colbert, a Christian physician with years of nutritional training and research under his belt. I would highly recommend his books. Another Christian authority on the subject is Dr. Caroline Leaf. Her books are also beneficial.

But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. I Corinthians 9:24-27

Exercise also helps our brains by improving memory, concentration and reasoning skills. It builds endurance both physically and mentally. It relieves stress, helps you sleep better, and removes toxins from the body.

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:2 (KJV)

For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)

The Word of God is the will of God and it has transformative power. It renews our minds, helping us to be more spiritual, rather than carnal and natural. It makes us wiser, sharper, smarter, more quick thinking, and enhances memory. It can even pinpoint areas where we need to think differently.

I have personally employed every single one of these strategies. I have found them all to be helpful and effective. However, by far, I believe that time in the Word of God and praying in the Holy Spirit have made the greatest impact on my mental and intellectual faculties. I had nearly destroyed my brain through serious drug and alcohol use in my teens. By learning to read, think, and speak the Word and coupling that with time spent praying in tongues, my brain was greatly improved and I now operate in the mind of Christ. No matter the condition of your brain and mind, whether good or bad, you can experience an improvement in brain function by using the ideas I have given.

Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. I Peter 1:13 (NIV)

Over the years I have read many books and articles on improving the brain and mental function. If you want a quick read that will help in this area, I recommend 365 Ways To Boost Your Brain Power by Carolyn Dean M.D., Valentine Dmitriev Ph.D., and Donna Raskin- published by Adams Media.