Issue 6: The First Step to a Stronger Memory

Philippians 4:8
 “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”

Memory problems are common for most of us, but here’s something you may not realize: attention is the first step in the memory process. If you don’t pay attention to something in the first place, you won’t remember it later.

Two types of attention

We have automatic attention and purposeful attention:

• Automatic attention happens when something external grabs our focus reflexively – like a loud noise, sudden movement, or flashing notification.
  

• Purposeful attention is when we choose what to focus on and intentionally resist distractions.

Both are part of how God designed our minds. Scripture recognizes this reality. Philippians 4:8 commands us to purposefully choose what we focus on: things that are true, honorable, pure, and worthy of praise.

Casting aside distractions

Hebrews 12:1-2
 “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith…”

This verse calls us to lay aside every weight to run the race set before us. Often, these “weights” include unhelpful thoughts, worries, and distractions. Notice how it finishes: “looking to Jesus.” We are told not just to let go of distractions, but to shift our attention to Him. That’s purposeful attention in action.

What to do this week

Strengthen your attention by practicing purposeful focus:

✅ Pick one thing to focus on for a set time (start with 5 minutes).
✅ Notice when your mind wanders.
✅ Gently shift your attention back to what you chose.

This might be easy when watching a gripping movie – but try focusing on your breathing for 5 minutes without getting distracted. That’s harder. The more challenging the task, the greater the strengthening of your attention skills.

Why this matters

Improving your attention improves your memory. It also trains your mind to shift focus away from distractions and worries towards what truly matters – just as Scripture instructs us to do.

Final encouragement
God created your mind with the ability to grow and strengthen. Each small act of purposefully shifting your attention is a step towards a clearer mind that reflects His peace and purpose.

In Him, 

Dr. Matt
Christian Neuropsychologist | Fellow Traveler in Faith and Clarity
https://clearmindweekly.beehiiv.com/ 
www.drmattbridgman.com