Be renewed in the spirit of your minds. – Ephesians 4:23
If you were given the opportunity to receive a printed transcript of your thoughts at the end of the day, would you take it? Scientific studies have confirmed, and it is no surprise, that the majority of people think mainly about themselves all day. A deeper understanding of that concept was discovered in recent years, showing the human brain has a default, sort of like a computer, that it is anchored in “self-centric thinking.” If you do not actively think about something else, you will naturally think about yourself.
The apostle Paul did not need modern science to confirm what he already knew: the mind must be directed towards God. He instructed believers to “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth“ (Colossians 3:2). He also outlined specific thought patterns for followers of Christ: “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things” (Philippians 4:8).
Are you aware of what is on your mind these days? Try this exercise, keeping a notebook and timer handy. Set a timer and sit quietly for a few minutes. When the timer goes off, jot down your thoughts. Then consider whether or not your thoughts need renewing. If you haven’t already made it a habit, keep a few scriptures handy and start thinking about those.
Science says you can choose your thoughts, and the Bible confirms it. Ask the Lord to help you train your mind to think on Him! Pray for those in leadership positions across the nation to have a focus on God and His path to wholeness, bringing healing to themselves and the nation.
Today’s Verse: Ephesians 4:23
and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds,
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Romans 8:5-10
5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. 6 For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. 7 For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed, it cannot. 8 Those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
9 You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. 10 But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
