But this theory is not proven. Some people appear to dwell on their pain and rage in a way that is quite destructive. Such an emphasis need not imply that Christians should practice denial. Paul, Christ and others in Scripture acknowledged they felt pain. It is rather a call to recognize the balance in Scripture, which is heavily weighted in the direction of our need to resist our native negativity, lack of gratitude and self-centeredness.
Christians have to think about themselves, just like everyone else.
But there is such a thing as self-absorption in the negative sense, and this is a form of setting our minds on the things of the flesh. There may be certain people who need to focus on themselves and their past episodes of abuse for a period of time. The rationale for this is that only when they reach a greater level of resolution will they be able to leave such things in the past for good. Ask Dennis a question or share a comment.