Date

9-17-2026

Department

College of Arts and Sciences

Degree

Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing (MFA)

Chair

Whitney Strickland

Keywords

renewing the mind, Christian nonfiction, authenticity, thought patterns, biblical truth, cognitive reframing, spiritual transformation, self-efficacy, narrative identity, faith and psychology

Disciplines

Creative Writing

Abstract

Change Your Way of Thinking: Renewing the Mind is a creative nonfiction thesis exploring how patterns of thought shape faith, identity, emotional responses, relationships, and daily living. Grounded in Romans 12:2, the creative manuscript combines biblical reflection, personal experience, psychological insight, and practical reader guidance to examine renewal through four movements: recognizing destructive thoughts, examining them in light of truth, replacing false beliefs with biblical truth, and practicing renewed responses. The Artist Statement explains the project’s purpose, genre, audience, structure, and biblical and psychological framework. The Critical Paper examines authenticity as the primary craft element in Christian nonfiction, considering how voice, lived experience, Scripture, research, and reader guidance contribute to trust and meaningful transformation. Together, the three components present renewed thinking as an ongoing process of spiritual formation in which honest reflection, biblical truth, grace, and practice can lead toward changed living.

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