Have you ever noticed how quick and easy it is to change your diet, clothes, or even your daily routine? But it’s pretty much impossible to change the way you think?? It doesn’t matter how hard you try to shut down certain thoughts. The same temptations and worries always sneak back in.
Well, that’s because the greatest struggle that you and I face each day isn’t around us. Instead, the battle is inside us. It’s in our minds.
Our culture today offers us all kinds of solutions. Download this app. Read this book. Think these thoughts. And some of those things may help for a moment. But, sooner or later, the same thoughts and worries absolutely return. No matter how disciplined or determined we are. We can never truly renew our hearts and our minds. Without a doubt, that work belongs to God alone.
In Ephesians 4:23–24 the Apostle Paul says, “…be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.”
Paul is telling us that real change in our minds doesn’t start with us; it starts with God. Only He has the power to renew our minds. Also, Paul is really just reinstating a promise that God gave the prophet Ezekiel.
Ezekiel 36:26–27 says, “And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules.”
He Does It
This is the supernatural work of God! Indeed, it’s His promise. He’s doing this in all of His sons and daughters. Not just once at conversion and never just once in a while. But every day!! 2 Corinthians 4:16 says, “our inner self is being renewed day by day.”
However, here’s the thing. This renewal doesn’t come by trying harder. On the contrary, it comes by depending on Him more deeply. Again, the renewal of our mind is not something we achieve. It’s always something we receive. You step into the renewing work (He’s doing in you) whenever you come to God. Specifically, when you are in His Word and prayer. It also happens every time you lean on Him and fix your thoughts on His Son.
So, the next time you feel like you can’t control your thoughts, take comfort. When your mind feels overwhelmed with temptations and fear, take comfort. Know that God has not left you to fight the battle alone. His Spirit faithfully renews you day by day.
Right now, God the Father is pouring out fresh waters of mercy and strength for you. The question is: “Are you drinking from it or are you trying to run on empty?”
Draw close to Him today. Give all your thoughts and worries to Him today. Be nourished and renewed by Him today.
Grace to you!
Posted in A Word from the Pastor