Written by Missionary Bruce
“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”
When we think of the new year, we think about our resolutions and the changes that we want to make, or new routines that we want to build or even re-build. However, as a Christian, we understand that each day is a new day to be a better version of ourselves in Christ - to draw closer to God and to allow Him to renew our minds while equipping us with the necessary skills to navigate in this world so we can be in His will.
As we embark into the unknown and into this new year, we must focus on God’s promises and allow Him to renew our minds in Him.
Below highlights two out of the numerous ways we can allow God to renew our minds.
Meditate on the Word of God
“This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.”
The Word of God is our guide in this world. The Word teaches us how to respond and how to behave. It teaches us how to understand who God is and what He needs from us as believers. If you continue to meditate on God’s word day and night, it will transform your way of thinking. Reading the bible allows us to get a better understanding of how to deal with certain situations. For example, when we are weak, we must remember that God is our strength. When we feel alone, we must remember that he said He will not leave nor forsake us. When we are not feeling well, we must remember He said that He will heal and restore us. Focusing on God’s Word will build up our spiritual man and allow us to encourage others. Knowing that we have a God who is the author and finisher of our faith gives us the confidence to make wise decisions.
2. Pay attention to the things we consume
It is very important that we pay attention to the things and people that we listen to and the things that we watch. What we put in our minds will begin to transform the way that we think. If we continue to watch horror films and scary movies, we will be filled with fear. When we continue to listen to gossip, we will begin to gossip like others. When we listen to complainers, you will begin to complain. All this will be done subconsciously – we won’t be aware of the change! We must be mindful and intentional with our time and who we spend it with. Sometimes, we must put down the phone, turn off the television, and allow ourselves to be consumed with what God has to say. Instead of watching a movie, we can listen to a sermon. Instead of listening to gossip, we can listen to worship music. Instead of listening to people and their negative emotions, we must pray.
The mind is a powerful weapon. It controls our motives and actions. It is important to be aware of what goes into our minds which is why it is important to continue to meditate on the Word of God. It is the only thing that will keep our minds from being consumed with the issues of life and the things of the world. As we head into the new year, let us focus on strengthening our minds so that when the enemy tries to attack us, we will remember who we are in Christ and be able to fight. We will be able to respond wisely and not allow the enemy to get the best out of our emotions. Life is filled with so many ups and downs, but it is important for us to continue to be sober minded and rise above the storms. It may not be easy at time, but as Matthew 19:26 states: “…with God all things are possible.” We have already won so let’s all put on the whole armor of God! As in the words of Pastor Williams, let us all “fight to the finish!”
“Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places”