Monday, October 19, 2009

Renewing the Mind


What is to be renewed?
The thoughts and beliefs of our mind. We will make choices (our will) and respond emotionally based upon the thoughts and beliefs we hold.
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is - His good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2
And we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5b

Why does it need to be renewed?
First, because God commands (Romans 12:2). Also, because our minds are thinking in contradiction to our new nature (our new identity). Experiencing our new identity is found in the process of renewing our minds; change happens only through our active participation.
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 mind; and to put on your new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:22-24

How is the mind renewed?
By choosing to respond in faith to God’s Word in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Holy Spirit + God’s Word + our will = Renewing Process
Some good Scriptures on this subject are the ones previously mentioned plus:
If then you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on the things that are on earth. Colossians 3:1-2
Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things. Philippians 4:8
The Christian life is not just a group of principles but a relationship with God. We can get to know God as we devotionally study the Bible.
Some practical steps are to focus on God in your prayer life and to learn about Him and His promises and principles in His Word.
Remember to focus on thoughts and beliefs, not on your emotions as well as deal with one area of your life at a time as God leads you there.
But we have the mind of Christ. 1 Corinthians 2:16b

Renewing the Mind

What is to be renewed?

The thoughts and beliefs of our mind. We will make choices (our will) and respond emotionally based upon the thoughts and beliefs we hold.
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is - His good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2
And we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5b

Why does it need to be renewed?
First, because God commands (Romans 12:2). Also, because our minds are thinking in contradiction to our new nature (our new identity). Experiencing our new identity is found in the process of renewing our minds; change happens only through our active participation.
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 mind; and to put on your new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:22-24

How is the mind renewed?
By choosing to respond in faith to God’s Word in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Holy Spirit + God’s Word + our will = Renewing Process
Some good Scriptures on this subject are the ones previously mentioned plus:
If then you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on the things that are on earth. Colossians 3:1-2
Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things. Philippians 4:8
The Christian life is not just a group of principles but a relationship with God. We can get to know God as we devotionally study the Bible.
Some practical steps are to focus on God in your prayer life and to learn about Him and His promises and principles in His Word.
Remember to focus on thoughts and beliefs, not on your emotions as well as deal with one area of your life at a time as God leads you there.
But we have the mind of Christ. 1 Corinthians 2:16b