Proverbs 18:21
July 2, 2024
TODAY’S GOSPEL READING – 2 JULY
July 2, 2024
THE 2nd OF JULY
HOW TO RENEW OUR MINDS
“Do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you].” – Romans 12:2
We are encouraged to avoid adopting the superficial values and customs of the world around us. A true Christian should not be swayed by the fleeting trends and practices of the current age. Every era has its own temporary values and customs, which often change more rapidly in prosperous societies.
No human society offers a perfect model to follow. Regardless of where we live, we must strive to be progressively transformed by renewing our minds with the truth of God’s Word. Our mental faculties, reasoning, and understanding are influenced by the values we embrace and our daily environment. During our time living a worldly life, our minds were conditioned to think according to worldly values. As Christians, we must discard our old mentality and adopt God’s perfect mindset, aligning with His eternal ways and values.
The more we study the Bible, seeking the Holy Spirit to reveal its truths to us, and meditate on them, the more we replace our old thinking patterns with godly ones. Each of us knows what areas need to change first. By focusing on the Bible verses that reveal God’s truth on those matters, we gradually adopt them and transform our mentality. Then, we can address other incorrect thinking patterns. Renewing our minds requires time and effort, but the outcome is invaluable. We live on this earth to understand God’s perfect will, follow it, fulfill His plan and purpose for our lives, and help others to live for Jesus.
SUGGESTED PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for providing a way for me to replace my old mindset with Your true and valid one. The more I understand Your will and the more Your Word becomes alive in my heart, the more blessed I am. I love Your value system! Please help me to understand it and to replace my old ways of thinking and acting with those shown in Your Word. Help me to understand and fulfill Your will. Thank You that Your will is good, acceptable, and perfect in Your plan and purpose for my life. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen
