1 Peter 5:8 warns us that we need to be self-controlled (make our own decision) and alert (think critically) to be protected against the enemy. And hypnosis has long been associated with those in the occult who want to reach evil spirits. This may even explain startlingly detailed “memories” that people wouldn’t normally have (Acts 16:16-18).
Critical thinking and decision-making skills guard what comes into the mind in light of Proverbs 4:23 (NIV): “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” When we put the guards to sleep, our hearts are left undefended, which directly influences our actions. Even if the hypnotist is working for our benefit, the risk of danger is phenomenal.
The Bible validates this. Galatians 5:22-23 mentions that we need to control ourselves, not give control to someone else. Romans 6:12-13 says we need to submit ourselves to God, not someone else. Romans 6:16 warns us against submitting our decisions to another. Despite the success stories, despite how much we may trust the hypnotist, the Bible tells us to stay away from anyone trying to control our minds.
The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 10:5 that we are to bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Jesus. This means that we are directly responsible for what we choose to think about and dwell on.
