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Brain Washed: Overcome Toxic Thoughts and Take Back Control of Your Mind
How to Be Mentally Strong in Christ
You can either take your thoughts captive or be held captive by them. The choice is yours.
Scripture declares we will be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Manny Arango describes this process as God washing our brains, and it is the surest way to overcome anxious thoughts, self-doubt, bitterness, and other mental struggles. But how can we experience this healing power?
This book is a biblical roadmap for winning the battles in your mind. Identify faulty ways of thinking and learn how to take every thought captive under the authority of Christ.
"Sometimes we all allow trauma and pain to determine how we journey through life and relationships. Brain Washed is a clear guide to get the right perspective." --CHANDLER MOORE, Maverick City Music
"A timely and relevant book to help the body of Christ find lasting freedom from toxic thought patterns." --PASTOR ROBERT MADU, Social Dallas
You can either take your thoughts captive or be held captive by them. The choice is yours.
Scripture declares we will be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Manny Arango describes this process as God washing our brains, and it is the surest way to overcome anxious thoughts, self-doubt, bitterness, and other mental struggles. But how can we experience this healing power?
This book is a biblical roadmap for winning the battles in your mind. Identify faulty ways of thinking and learn how to take every thought captive under the authority of Christ.
"Sometimes we all allow trauma and pain to determine how we journey through life and relationships. Brain Washed is a clear guide to get the right perspective." --CHANDLER MOORE, Maverick City Music
"A timely and relevant book to help the body of Christ find lasting freedom from toxic thought patterns." --PASTOR ROBERT MADU, Social Dallas
208 pages, Hardcover
Published September 13, 2022
76 people are currently reading
319 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
September 18, 2022
Every one of us is brainwashed, Arango writes. It's a result of the Fall. We are either brainwashed by the serpent or by God. We can choose to have our brains washed by God's truth, adopting the Mind of Christ.
Arango combines personal experiences with biblical teaching to help us on the journey. Many believers are still operating with a fallen mind and we are encouraged to put effort into the life long process of renewing our minds. Arango focuses on three areas: intimacy with God, identity within self, and interdependence with others.
I appreciate Arango's teaching. I liked his ideas on blessings, that they are difficult to identify immediately. Blessings may be camouflaged as seeds within difficult situations. He gives a good personal experience in illustration. I like his emphasis on controlling thoughts. He has an insight on the woman with the issue of blood I had never seen before, “because she thought.” A surprise was Arango saying to adopt the Mind of Christ, “we have to first adopt the habits of Christ and use His life as a blueprint for the pattern and pace of our lives.” (81) That is a challenge.
The last section of Arango's book is about generating and controlling thoughts. He shares his own experience in failing to control his thoughts. (177) He emphasizes our need to control our focus, to break soul ties and other acts of cutting off unwanted influence. While we are encouraged to actively use our minds for the glory of God, I was disappointed there was no practical strategy included.
This book contains good teaching but readers might have to figure out on their own how to do what Arango encourages.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Arango combines personal experiences with biblical teaching to help us on the journey. Many believers are still operating with a fallen mind and we are encouraged to put effort into the life long process of renewing our minds. Arango focuses on three areas: intimacy with God, identity within self, and interdependence with others.
I appreciate Arango's teaching. I liked his ideas on blessings, that they are difficult to identify immediately. Blessings may be camouflaged as seeds within difficult situations. He gives a good personal experience in illustration. I like his emphasis on controlling thoughts. He has an insight on the woman with the issue of blood I had never seen before, “because she thought.” A surprise was Arango saying to adopt the Mind of Christ, “we have to first adopt the habits of Christ and use His life as a blueprint for the pattern and pace of our lives.” (81) That is a challenge.
The last section of Arango's book is about generating and controlling thoughts. He shares his own experience in failing to control his thoughts. (177) He emphasizes our need to control our focus, to break soul ties and other acts of cutting off unwanted influence. While we are encouraged to actively use our minds for the glory of God, I was disappointed there was no practical strategy included.
This book contains good teaching but readers might have to figure out on their own how to do what Arango encourages.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
October 5, 2022
Brain Washed by Pastor Manny Arango helps readers overcome toxic thoughts by learning to live with the Mind of Christ instead of the Mind of Adam. The Mind of Adam perpetuates toxic thoughts about God, ourselves, and others.
The book’s first part discusses the mental framework of the Mind of Adam, which is marked by independence, insecurity, and isolation. The second part of the book shows how The Mind of Christ moves our thinking from independence from God to intimacy with God, from insecurity to identity, and from isolation to interdependence with others. The Mind of Christ is constantly at work to redeem our thoughts about God, ourselves, and others.
“The journey from the Mind of Adam to the Mind of Christ offers divine approval, which leads to identity, humility, confidence, and true abundant life. I’ve found that once a person really believes and accepts the approval of God, their aching need for applause shrivels and dies.”
At first, it was difficult for me to think past the negative connotation of being brainwashed. As I read the book, I understood the positive aspect of having our brains washed with the Mind of Christ and abandoning our human tendency to think with the Mind of Adam. The author guides the reader to transform thoughts by accepting our God-given identity.
“Intimacy with God is the undeniable catalyst for adopting The Mind of Christ. Adopting the Mind of Christ requires a change of perspective on life so we can recognize opportunities and blessings when they are presented. The Mind of Christ requires that we also adopt the eyes of faith, gratitude, and victory.
“The Mind of Adam seeks pity and sympathy. The Mind of Christ is full of power and strength.”
I appreciated the author’s insight into how Christians confuse God’s calling on their life (their gifts and purpose) with their identity.
“Whenever we’re unaware of our true identity as sons and daughters of God, we grab the next best thing, which is our purpose. In my personal journey, I had to realize that the gift to preach and preaching itself were created things that had the power to exalt the Creator, but equally had to power to become idols in my life.”
This book is a great resource to help wash your brain and transform your thought life. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
The book’s first part discusses the mental framework of the Mind of Adam, which is marked by independence, insecurity, and isolation. The second part of the book shows how The Mind of Christ moves our thinking from independence from God to intimacy with God, from insecurity to identity, and from isolation to interdependence with others. The Mind of Christ is constantly at work to redeem our thoughts about God, ourselves, and others.
“The journey from the Mind of Adam to the Mind of Christ offers divine approval, which leads to identity, humility, confidence, and true abundant life. I’ve found that once a person really believes and accepts the approval of God, their aching need for applause shrivels and dies.”
At first, it was difficult for me to think past the negative connotation of being brainwashed. As I read the book, I understood the positive aspect of having our brains washed with the Mind of Christ and abandoning our human tendency to think with the Mind of Adam. The author guides the reader to transform thoughts by accepting our God-given identity.
“Intimacy with God is the undeniable catalyst for adopting The Mind of Christ. Adopting the Mind of Christ requires a change of perspective on life so we can recognize opportunities and blessings when they are presented. The Mind of Christ requires that we also adopt the eyes of faith, gratitude, and victory.
“The Mind of Adam seeks pity and sympathy. The Mind of Christ is full of power and strength.”
I appreciated the author’s insight into how Christians confuse God’s calling on their life (their gifts and purpose) with their identity.
“Whenever we’re unaware of our true identity as sons and daughters of God, we grab the next best thing, which is our purpose. In my personal journey, I had to realize that the gift to preach and preaching itself were created things that had the power to exalt the Creator, but equally had to power to become idols in my life.”
This book is a great resource to help wash your brain and transform your thought life. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
September 13, 2022
A great book that will help readers take back control of their mind in a world where our minds are constantly being attacked.
Our world bombards us with so many distractions and things that can take our minds and thoughts captive, and we have a choice, let it take us captive or take the thoughts captive. Throughout the pages of this book, readers see how important it is to look to scripture in order to transform our minds and overcome what the world wants and expects of us. Many times throughout my life, I have heard that the Bible is the instructional manual for our lives. That can be hard to believe but it really is true. The Bible gives us instructions to deal with whatever may come our way, and I’ve had several hard things come my way lately. Learning to truly rely on God and his word is a hard thing but when we do find that faith it will change lives.
Dealing with trauma and pain can make relationships and our journey through life very difficult but using the words throughout Brain Washed will help make things easier. As I read through the pages of this book, I found myself nodding my head and smiling at many of the lessons it taught. With social media and all the outlets available to escape into, it is easier than ever for evil thoughts to get into our head and take us down a path we don’t want to be on. Readers will go throughout these pages and find helpful advice for everyday life and so much more.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
Our world bombards us with so many distractions and things that can take our minds and thoughts captive, and we have a choice, let it take us captive or take the thoughts captive. Throughout the pages of this book, readers see how important it is to look to scripture in order to transform our minds and overcome what the world wants and expects of us. Many times throughout my life, I have heard that the Bible is the instructional manual for our lives. That can be hard to believe but it really is true. The Bible gives us instructions to deal with whatever may come our way, and I’ve had several hard things come my way lately. Learning to truly rely on God and his word is a hard thing but when we do find that faith it will change lives.
Dealing with trauma and pain can make relationships and our journey through life very difficult but using the words throughout Brain Washed will help make things easier. As I read through the pages of this book, I found myself nodding my head and smiling at many of the lessons it taught. With social media and all the outlets available to escape into, it is easier than ever for evil thoughts to get into our head and take us down a path we don’t want to be on. Readers will go throughout these pages and find helpful advice for everyday life and so much more.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
October 13, 2022
I am sure toxic thoughts are nothing new, but the world and media seem to give us a lot more material for them now! It seems anxiety and fear generated by these harmful ruminations has reached epidemic proportions.
I have my fair share of struggles with this too. The Bible emphasizes the importance of renewing our minds and not accepting everything that pops into our heads. It is truly our guideline to true peace and a healthy mind. Yet sometimes in the midst of our suffering we find it hard to apply this wisdom.
Through his own personal challenges in this area and sharing his private experiences, he helps the reader not only navigate their complicated thought life, but also apply what scripture teaches. The book was very thorough in addressing such a difficult problem. I like that he had so many biblical references to guide me. What impressed me the most about the book was how the author directed the reader achievable and concrete solutions to change their thinking. This book was definitely written by someone who understands how hard conquering toxic thoughts is but has found victory over them!
I received this book from Bethany House Nonfiction/Chosen Books in exchange for an honest review. The opinions I have stated are my own.
I have my fair share of struggles with this too. The Bible emphasizes the importance of renewing our minds and not accepting everything that pops into our heads. It is truly our guideline to true peace and a healthy mind. Yet sometimes in the midst of our suffering we find it hard to apply this wisdom.
Through his own personal challenges in this area and sharing his private experiences, he helps the reader not only navigate their complicated thought life, but also apply what scripture teaches. The book was very thorough in addressing such a difficult problem. I like that he had so many biblical references to guide me. What impressed me the most about the book was how the author directed the reader achievable and concrete solutions to change their thinking. This book was definitely written by someone who understands how hard conquering toxic thoughts is but has found victory over them!
I received this book from Bethany House Nonfiction/Chosen Books in exchange for an honest review. The opinions I have stated are my own.
September 5, 2022
Brain Washed is a personal growth book by author Manny Arango. Manny Arango is a teaching pastor at Social Dallas.
Brain Washed is organized into three parts. Part one ~ Understanding the mind of Adam. Part two ~ Adopting the mind of Christ. Part three ~ Mind maintenance.
I believe the author’s purpose is to inform readers how Christians can have the mind of Christ. The thesis of Brain Washed is to help readers win the battle taking place in their minds, to regain control over rogue thoughts, so the kingdom of heaven can be firmly established on Earth.
Brain Washed would make a great book group study. I give Brain Washed 5*/5*.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Brain Washed is organized into three parts. Part one ~ Understanding the mind of Adam. Part two ~ Adopting the mind of Christ. Part three ~ Mind maintenance.
I believe the author’s purpose is to inform readers how Christians can have the mind of Christ. The thesis of Brain Washed is to help readers win the battle taking place in their minds, to regain control over rogue thoughts, so the kingdom of heaven can be firmly established on Earth.
Brain Washed would make a great book group study. I give Brain Washed 5*/5*.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
November 21, 2022
Brain Washed
Overcome Toxic Thoughts and Take Back Control of Your Mind
by Manny Arango
Pub Date 13 Sep 2022 | Archive Date 23 Oct 2022
Bethany House, Bethany House Publishers
Christian | Health, Mind & Body | Nonfiction (Adult)
I am reviewing a copy of Brain Washed through Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley:
You have a choice you can either take your thoughts captive or you can be held captive by them.
In Scripture we learn we will be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Manny Arango describes this process as God washing our brains, and it is the surest way to overcome anxious thoughts, self-doubt, bitterness, and other mental struggles. But how can we experience this healing power?
Brain Washed is a biblical roadmap for winning the battles in our minds.
I give Brainwashed five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
Overcome Toxic Thoughts and Take Back Control of Your Mind
by Manny Arango
Pub Date 13 Sep 2022 | Archive Date 23 Oct 2022
Bethany House, Bethany House Publishers
Christian | Health, Mind & Body | Nonfiction (Adult)
I am reviewing a copy of Brain Washed through Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley:
You have a choice you can either take your thoughts captive or you can be held captive by them.
In Scripture we learn we will be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Manny Arango describes this process as God washing our brains, and it is the surest way to overcome anxious thoughts, self-doubt, bitterness, and other mental struggles. But how can we experience this healing power?
Brain Washed is a biblical roadmap for winning the battles in our minds.
I give Brainwashed five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
April 24, 2022
The title of this book is a little different from what books in the genre would be given, it sounds more like a self help book than a spiritual growth book, it may be the same thing to some people but might also be a two different concepts to the next person.
I thoroughly enjoyed the referencing and referral to scripture because it makes it more "fact based". The author didn't shy away from including his personal experiences and opinions which can be quiet refreshing.
[I got this ARC from Netgalley for an honest review~ Thank you!]
I thoroughly enjoyed the referencing and referral to scripture because it makes it more "fact based". The author didn't shy away from including his personal experiences and opinions which can be quiet refreshing.
[I got this ARC from Netgalley for an honest review~ Thank you!]
May 5, 2025
Much Needed In The Moment
I have a daily struggle with containing my thoughts in regards to day dreams. My mind just goes down it’s own path into so many realistic as well as unrealistic scenarios. This book helped me realize that by spending years feeding these day dreams I trained my mind to slip into a trance full of scenarios that I can control. Now it is time to retrain my brain. A big shout out to Manny Arango for allowing God to use him and his experiences to help others by writing this book.
I have a daily struggle with containing my thoughts in regards to day dreams. My mind just goes down it’s own path into so many realistic as well as unrealistic scenarios. This book helped me realize that by spending years feeding these day dreams I trained my mind to slip into a trance full of scenarios that I can control. Now it is time to retrain my brain. A big shout out to Manny Arango for allowing God to use him and his experiences to help others by writing this book.
January 4, 2024
Biblically based and very practical book! I bought this book after Manny Arango came to preach at my church one Sunday. His sermon was life changing and I love the way he communicated, so I knew it was only right to read his book too.
If you have negative and/or toxic thoughts of any kind this book is for you! It’s given me several revelations of scripture that I had never realized. Highly recommend!!
If you have negative and/or toxic thoughts of any kind this book is for you! It’s given me several revelations of scripture that I had never realized. Highly recommend!!
July 16, 2025
This is the best book I've read in AGES!
I have my mentor to thank for directing me to s clip of this author in IG. Once I saw his order sermon I bought Chaos and this Brain Washed book. It's absolutely changed my life.
The analogy of focusing on a calm passenger during turbulence and Jesus being in our boat.
The advice to live a life of intimacy and to remember his promises.
I took pages of notes.
I have my mentor to thank for directing me to s clip of this author in IG. Once I saw his order sermon I bought Chaos and this Brain Washed book. It's absolutely changed my life.
The analogy of focusing on a calm passenger during turbulence and Jesus being in our boat.
The advice to live a life of intimacy and to remember his promises.
I took pages of notes.
December 30, 2022
You Are Being Brainwashed
Great book on living for God.
Touched on some very important and timely brainwashing regimes too - like China.
I was pretty amazed by Arango to have this in the book!
Anyways, the general message from this book - live every moment for Jesus.
I love that!
Highly recommended reading this.
4.8/5
Great book on living for God.
Touched on some very important and timely brainwashing regimes too - like China.
I was pretty amazed by Arango to have this in the book!
Anyways, the general message from this book - live every moment for Jesus.
I love that!
Highly recommended reading this.
4.8/5
June 15, 2023
I LOVED this book! The author is amazing at helping us take our thoughts captive and walking back to a Christ like Mind. If anyone has struggled with negative thoughts, anxiety or doubts this is an excellent book to read. I'm excited to put what I have learned in this book to practice and finally have freedom from toxic thought patterns.
April 23, 2025
Solid read pretty convicting at some points! Especially the chapter on victim mentality being sourced from a bitter perspective on life.
I’d say some of the stories didn’t fully make sense how it pertained to all the info, but it was definitely a great book! Learned a lot. 100% recommend this book
I’d say some of the stories didn’t fully make sense how it pertained to all the info, but it was definitely a great book! Learned a lot. 100% recommend this book
November 12, 2025
Good Book
Brainwashed started out slow, but really picked up towards the middle. I would recommend this book, don't give up on it until you're half way through. I gave it a 4, because of the slow start.
Brainwashed started out slow, but really picked up towards the middle. I would recommend this book, don't give up on it until you're half way through. I gave it a 4, because of the slow start.
December 4, 2025
This was a pretty good book. I don't know if I agree with everything he says theologically, but it's a solid resource and even one that I quoted in my final paper in Grad school. As a youth pastor, I think this could be a valuable resource for my students.
December 7, 2025
“Are you battling with insecure thoughts? Then God says to you, ‘I am who I am’. He doesn’t say ‘You are who you are’. Confidence is never discovered by looking within. Confidence can only be recovered with God, revealed by God, and received by God.” ~Manny Arango
January 14, 2023
So manny nuggets of truth!! I can take my eyes off the thorns and appreciate the roses.
March 7, 2023
The book holds some good, practical thoughts. I didn't like the overall usage of scripture; some of it seemed to insert ideas into the biblical text. 2.5/5 stars
November 8, 2023
We all are brainwashed into Adam’s brain. But we can become brainwashed like Jesus.
July 24, 2024
Highly recommend to any thinking person!
November 8, 2024
Highly highly highly recommend
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews