Of all the things I’ve lost, I miss my mind the most.
Ha-ha.
Seriously, where is your mind?
We are to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. (2 Corinthians 10:5)
Here’s how
(Listen up, Kristin)
#1 Make up your mind to think aright
Make a firm commitment to bring your “thought-life” in line with the Word of God. Settle your commitment so that you can rely on your determination when you’re tempted to think otherwise.
“But Daniel made up his mind that he would not defile himself with the king’s choice food…” (Daniel 1:8)
#2 Set your mind on
God’s interests. (Mark 8:33)
On the things of the Spirit. “For those who are according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who are according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace, because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so,” (Romans 8:5–7)
On things above. “Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth.” (Colossians 3:2)
#3 Things to think about
“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, dwell on these things.” (Philippians 4:8)
#4 Do you hear what you’re thinking? Be mindful of your mind.
If your mind has strayed, bring it back to God’s interests, and dwell on…
Check yourself:
Do you often think about what is wrong with the world, your family and friends, yourself?
Do you grumble?
Do you fantasize about ungodly things and actions? Don’t think that is okay! (Matthew 5:27–28)
Once you notice you’re not thinking correctly,
Stop yourself,
Remember your commitment,
Choose to think aright.
Substitute gratitude for grumbles.
Substitute truth for lies.
#5 Pray for a godly, focused mind
Ask God to open your mind to His Word “Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures,” (Luke 24:45)
Ask God to renew your mind, transforming you. “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…” (Romans 12:2) (Also see Ephesians 4:23–24)
Ask God to recall to your mind His ways, His deeds, His love, and His faithfulness. “This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. The Lord’s lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:21–23)
#6 Remember
We have the mind of Christ. (1 Corinthians 2:16)
#7 There are rewards
Those who are steadfast of mind will have perfect peace.
“And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7)
If you make New Year’s resolutions, should this be on your list?
