Biblical Perspective

From a philosophical standpoint DBT views human nature as neutral (e.g., human beings are neither inherently good nor bad) (Kress et al., 2021; Tan, 2011). However, from a biblical standpoint, Romans 3:23 (New International Version [NIV], 1973/2011) assures us that all have sinned (i.e., a fallen nature) and fallen short of the glory of God; and yet all individuals have an equally great capacity for good when accepting the need for a Savior; and receiving His free gift of grace. Additionally, DBT embraces an idea of relative truth based on one’s experiences whereas the Bible clearly illustrates there is absolute truth as well as moral absolutes (NIV, Psalms 19:7; 119:42).

An integral component of DBT is mindfulness combined with acceptance. “Mindfulness is an awareness of the here and now; and full engagement in what the person is doing” (Nagayma Hall et al., 2011, p. 216). Trammel (2018) puts it this way, it is the action of being present in the moment with an ability to observe one’s thoughts nonjudgmentally. However, for the Christian DBT therapist, it is important to understand this Eastern concept is rooted in meditative Zen Buddhism, with the ultimate intent of gaining power through personal awareness (i.e., finding the answers within) and may open-up an individual to familiar spirits (Newman & Waldman, 2009; Trammel, 2018). Thus, focusing both the burden and the solution solely within the individual. However, the Bible tells us to meditate (i.e., focus one’s attention) on God and His word and receive from His Spirit, “my mouth shall speak of wisdom and the meditation of my heart will be understanding” (NIV, 1973/2011, Psalms 49:3).

Additionally, Christian therapists can highlight mindfulness strategies in the context of focusing on the vertical relationship with the Creator rather than solely on the self as well as share the scriptural precedence for reliance upon the Lord and interdependence. This removes the sole burden from the individual and replaces it with a positive coping mechanism—meditation on God’s word— without reliance on a mysticism component.

Newman and Waldman (2009) in their book “How God Changes your Brain: Breakthrough Findings from a Leading Neuroscientist”—which is secular research that looks at how God and the brain are affected— discusses that when an individual focuses one’s thought (i.e., mindfulness) on positive thoughts about God’s values and goals, it increases the blood flow to the frontal lobe and the anterior cingulate. This increased blood flow causes a decrease in the emotional areas, thus, allowing for more control over one’s reactions—an overarching goal of DBT (Newman & Waldman). Additionally, the anterior cingulate is significantly responsible for lowering anxiety, irritability, and enhancing social awareness: essentially, it trains the brain to be calm (Newman & Waldman). It is, therefore, an emotional regulator. Conversely, when focusing one’s mind negatively toward a future event, the response of the amygdala (i.e., the area of the trauma brain) is enhanced and subsequently causes decreased blood flow to the anterior cingulate, and when overly stimulated, individuals may see God as frightening, authoritative, and punitive, which directly suppresses one’s ability to think logically about God (Leaf, 2014; Newman & Waldman).