04 Oct Mind Renovation- The Renewing Of Your Mind
Welcome to Mind Renovation, The Renewing of Your Mind
This is a blog based around Romans chapter 12, verse 2. The Bible tells us “not to be conformed to the pattern of thinking of this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” What does this mean for us as modern-day Christians living in today’s culture? Even in our city of Greensboro, North Carolina, we see many influences in our culture. As a predominately black church, we at the Sharpe Road Church of Christ are not immune to issues. After all, the church is one body with many members and each has unique experiences. These can shape worldviews and thought processes. The renewing of your mind is more essential now than ever.
The Greek word for renewing in the scripture above is Anakainosis, which literally means renovation. If there is a time for mind renovation, it is now. The Covid-19 pandemic, along with all of the issues that go with it has wreaked havoc on the mental health of the church. The current state of our world is filled with violence, war, sickness, and death. Hope seems to be fading in every area of society. Children are being stripped of their innocence. Homes are being ravaged because of adultery, abuse, divorce, and other evil forces. We can’t even turn on the news or social media without being bombarded with negativity. It leads one to ask the question, is there any hope left? This is why the renewing of your mind is so important.
Friends, be encouraged because there is, and it all starts when we renew our minds.
2 Corinthians chapter 10, verse 1 states: “For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.” What are these spiritual strongholds? How do they affect your mind? Strongholds are fortified methods of thinking, thoughts that set themselves up against the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Every evil action in the world starts in the mind. That is why satan is desperately after our minds.
Ephesians 4: 22-32 states: “You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, so that they may have something to share with those in need. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Taking these types of actions can aid in the renewing of your mind daily.
The Renewing of Your Mind: Transforming Your Life Through Spiritual Growth
The Bible teaches us that as Christians, we are called to renew our minds. In Romans 12:2, we are instructed to “not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” What does it mean to renew our minds, and why is it so important for our spiritual growth?
Renewing our minds involves changing the way we think and perceive the world around us. It means replacing negative, worldly thoughts with positive, Christ-centered thoughts. This is not something that happens overnight; it is a continual process that requires discipline and a desire to grow closer to God.
One of the ways we can renew our minds is by studying the Bible. The Bible is the ultimate source of truth and wisdom, and it provides us with the knowledge and guidance we need to live a godly life. By spending time in the Word, we can begin to understand God’s will for our lives and develop a Christ-centered perspective on the world around us.
Another way to renew our minds is through prayer and meditation. Prayer allows us to communicate with God and seek His guidance and wisdom. Meditation involves focusing our thoughts on God and His truth, rather than the distractions and concerns of this world. Through prayer and meditation, we can begin to see the world through God’s eyes and develop a deeper understanding of His will for our lives.
Renewing our minds also involves letting go of negative thought patterns and attitudes. We must be willing to confess and repent of any sinful thoughts or attitudes and ask God to help us change. This can be a difficult process, as we are often deeply entrenched in our old ways of thinking. However, with the help of the Holy Spirit, we can overcome these negative thought patterns and embrace a new way of thinking and living.
The benefits of renewing our minds are numerous. We will experience greater peace, joy, and contentment as we develop a deeper understanding of God’s love and plan for our lives. We will also be better equipped to resist temptation and avoid the pitfalls of sin.
In conclusion, the renewing of our minds is a crucial aspect of spiritual growth. By studying the Bible, praying, meditating, and letting go of negative thought patterns, we can develop a Christ-centered perspective on the world around us. Let us strive to renew our minds daily so that we can live lives that honor and glorify God.
In addition to this blueprint, the Bible has clearly defined what Christians should focus their thoughts on. Remember, it’s all about the renewing of your mind. Philippians 4: 8 tells us “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” No matter what the issues are that are going on, from Greensboro to Greece, the blueprint for the Christian is the same for everyone. Remember what Matthew 16: 18 states: “Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means ‘rock’), and upon this rock, I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it.” That is a direct promise from Christ, and God cannot lie or He would cease to exist. This is why we can be encouraged. God has blessed His church with the power of the Holy Spirit, the Holy word, prayer, and many other weapons to fight against the evil thoughts that lead to actions.
In conclusion, as we are in the process of renewing our minds, think of the renovation process as similar to a home. Before we can put in new tiles, we must tear up the old ones. Before we can put up new cabinets, we must destroy the old ones. Before we can make new space for room expansion to decorate, we must knock down the walls that are strongholds in the structure. The good news is we don’t do this alone. God not only has all of the tools to equip us for mind renovation, but He has made them easily accessible to us. The tools are His word, prayer, worship, praise, faith, and many other spiritual concepts that help us take evil thoughts captive, and bring them into obedience to Christ. The greatest news of all is that in the renovation process of your mental home, the mortgage is paid off. The renewing of your mind is not only possible, but it is also available to you today! Christ paid your home off because He paid it all on the cross at Calvary. I hope that this blog is a blessing to you.
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