Working as a news reporter, it becomes obvious that some stories can almost paralyze readers. I too have been guilty of letting my thoughts become paralyzed, not only with a particular news event but also with beliefs. Time and effort is spent rehashing a belief and paralysis sets in.

Let’s take the belief of God’s disapproval. This belief can be paralyzing.

In my study of divine Science, I’m learning God doesn’t have the human trait of disapproving or approving. Divine Science interprets a God of Love and Truth, satisfied with its creation. When a mind approves of its manifestation, there is no room for disapproval.

Why do I humanly feel disapproval?

If I’m not treating others how I’d rather not be treated, I will feel disapproval, but it’s not from God, it’s from the behavior of not treating others as I’d like to be treated. Behavior counter to spiritual truth comes mixed with dissatisfaction.

If I treat others how I’d like to be treated, I feel approval.

Now, I wouldn’t go so far as to say there is some humanlike God giving approval, because God is divine Spirit, manifesting support, praise, and appreciation nonstop. When in line with God, the result is a feeling of approval to the human sense.

The result is freeing and encourages me to stop letting my thoughts become paralyzed. God is divine Mind, all-knowing, in agreement with every thought revealed.

I can reflect this spiritual truth, dismiss the paralyzing belief of approval and disapproval, and move on in life.

“And getting into a boat he crossed over and came to his own city. ² And behold, some people brought to him a paralytic, lying on a bed. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.” ³ And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” ⁴ But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? ⁵ For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? ⁶ But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he then said to the paralytic—“Rise, pick up your bed and go home.” ⁷ And he rose and went home. ⁸ When the crowds saw it, they were afraid, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to men.” (Matt. 9, English Standard Version)