May 7, 2025 A Mind That Can Stretch

“Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of the mind,
so that you may discern what is the will of God—
what is good and acceptable and perfect.”

The school counselor at our son’s Prosper ISD elementary school is fantastic. She regularly leads workshops for the kids on a variety of meaningful topics. Most recently, Hudson came home and told us that she taught his class about something called “bubblegum brain vs. brick brain.”

When I asked him more about it, I was surprised by how well he was able to articulate the idea (clearly the counselor’s message had resonated with six year olds). He was basically summarizing the mindset theory of American psychologist Dr. Carol Dweck: the belief that our abilities are either 1.) fixed and unchangeable—what Hudson called the “brick brain” , or 2.) that abilities can be developed through practice and effort—the “bubblegum brain,” also known as a growth mindset.

The theory goes like this: if someone believes their abilities are fixed, they’re more likely to give up when faced with challenges. But if they believe they can grow through practice, they’re more likely to persevere—and, over time, actually improve and achieve more.

A brick brain says: “I’m not good at this,” or “I’ll never change.” It’s hard and inflexible—just like a brick.

But a bubblegum brain says: “I can learn,” or “This is hard, but I can try again.” It stretches, adapts, and doesn’t easily give up.

I was struck by how valuable this kind of lesson is for a young child (heck, even for adults) and immediately wondered whether the Bible speaks to the power and importance of this growth mindset. And that’s when I stumbled upon today’s passage in Romans.

Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of the mind.” In other words, God invites us into ongoing transformation, stretching and reshaping our thoughts and attitudes through God’s spirit.

God doesn’t want us stuck in rigid, unchanging ways of thinking. Instead, God calls us to be open, responsive, and teachable – like the bubblegum brain Hudson described. When we follow Jesus, we don’t have to stay the same. God helps our minds grow so we can think like Christ, love like Christ, and live with courage and compassion.

Reflect:  In what areas of your life are you most tempted to operate with a “brick brain”—believing change isn’t possible?

How might you invite God to renew your thinking and help you develop a “bubblegum brain” in those areas?

Pray: Gracious God, thank You for creating our minds with the ability to grow and change.  Help me recognize where I’ve become rigid or closed off, and renew those places with Your grace and wisdom. Teach me to think more like You and walk in the freedom of transformation. Amen.