Renewing Your Mind

Do not conform 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

Are You Being Conformed or Transformed?

Conformed (Outside In) a simple definition to conform is to do what other people do: to behave in a way that is accepted by most people. So as Christians we have to be cautious about being in harmony and fashioned like this world. The New Living Translation says “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world”, well put.

Transformed (Inside Out) is to change completely: To change in composition or structure, in character or condition. Again I enjoy the way the NLT says it “but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think”.

Our Mind

Our mind affects our whole person and to renew your mind means exactly what it says: to make new or strong again. Sometimes we have to restore, regenerate or start again. Transformation comes when you renew your mind. Once this happens, you find yourself no longer conforming to the pattern of this world but to the will of God. When thinking changes, behavior will also change. (Proverbs 23:7) Where the mind goes, the man will follow.

Beware of the Deceiver

Who is the god of this age? (2 Corinthians 4:4) It is Satan whose name means “adversary”. One of Satan’s Strategies is to attack our minds. He blinds people to God’s truth through the world system he has created. (Philippians 3:19) Without a godly influence, man left to him will follow that system. Why does he attack our minds? Well our thoughts are forerunners of both our words and actions. Our mind is a part of the image of God where He communicates with us and reveals his will to us.

Commit Your Mind

Self discipline in our thoughts is a critical element of renewing our minds. God has promised to help. (2 Tim 1:7) He gave us the Holy Spirit and the Holy Spirit is a renewing agent (2 Cor 3:17). We need to stay deeply and constantly connected to God. (John 16:13) So how can we do this?

1. Read your Bible

The renewing starts with reading and studying God’s Word. “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly”. (Colossians 3:16) Commit to set your mind on God’s Word.

2. Meditate on it

To meditate means to think about it intently and at length. Memorizing verses and even sections of His truth is important. (Psalm 119:11) So think about and meditate on it.

3. Pray

Pray that the Holy Spirit opens your heart and mind to God’s Truths and ask God what it says, what it means and what it means to you.

4. Fill Your Mind with Profitable things

It is important to have church fellowship; there is power in a community. Listen to good sound Bible preaching, teaching and good gospel music. Weed out the unprofitable things.

Thought to Remember

Set your mind on things above (Colossians 3:2)