A NEW MIND

There are so many things I hope for, with every new year, that listing them would go beyond my word allowance for this devotional. Kidding aside, I pray for and have hope in so many things like salvation for loved ones, freedom from my physical pain, and an increase in finances. While all of these are significant to me and, perhaps to you too, there is something of greater importance for us in today’s verse.

Paul’s command from Romans to be transformed by having a renewed mind seems to be such a monumental task that it’s hard to know where to begin. While Satan can’t read my thoughts, he sure has the ability to plant some negative humdingers in my head. My thought life can become a hot mess if I’m not diligent about keeping the enemy’s nose out of my business, which can only happen if I immerse myself in the things of God, namely, his Word.

Everything that is good, pure, noble and true (Philippians 4:8) comes from the pages of Scripture and has the divine power to rewire the configuration of my mind if I let it. And I do. Everyday, I begin by coming before my heavenly Father in prayer and drinking in the beautiful truths found throughout the Bible. The nuggets of gold that come from mining the holy pages of God’s Word excites and overjoys me.

The world will always compete for my attention and, at times, it’s successful until I remember who holds me in the palm of his hand. Then I turn to the source of all truth available to me by reading the Bible or recalling memorized verses. I become restored and renewed of mind, refocusing my attention on the things that are eternal.

If you desire a renewed mind but struggle with being in the Word of God for a long time each day, start out with five minutes. You will be amazed at how quickly your mind will begin to be renewed and your desire to read more of the Bible will increase. Be diligent in the small things and they’ll become big, to the glory of God.

*Heavenly Father, there is so much at play in this world at any given time. The things that bombard my mind make it hard to feel renewed but I know the more diligent I am each day in reaching for you, the more I will experience transformation and renewing of my mind for all things heavenly. It's in Christ's name I praise and thank you. Amen. *

Throughout The Day: Take time to sit quietly and reflect on the truths you have heard or read from God’s word, letting those truths protect, renew and refresh your mind.