As a Christian I want to be changed into the image of Christ. I want to think like Him and be like Him in every way I can.
Romans 12:2 tells me this transformation happens as my mind is renewed. That certainly depends upon the work of the Holy Spirit. But what am I to do in cooperation with God in this process?
This message explores two fundamental ways in which believers are to position themselves for that renewing to occur. First, we are to be intentional about our thought life. Phil. 4:8 makes that very clear. Second, we are to fill our minds with the word of God. Seven ways in which we are to do that are discussed.
View PDF for this sermon (opens in a new window)
Outline
Practical Steps for Thinking Right
Intro:
Text Rom. 8:5, “Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that sinful nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.”
How do we cooperate with God in the renewing of our minds (Rom. 12:2)?
I. Be INTENTIONAL about what you think about!
A. Discard thoughts that come from the sinful nature (2 Cor. 10:4-5). B. Occupy your mind with the right things (Phil. 4:8).
II. Fill your Mind with the WORD of God!
A. Bible is a Revelation of the Way God Thinks. Heb. 10:16
B. Six Ways to Use your Bible
- Read it to get the flow of thought.
- Study it to understand its meaning.
- Meditate on it to get application to your life.
- Memorize it to make it available all the time.
- Pray it to bring its substance into your prayer life.
- Practice it in your daily life.
- Share it with others to strengthen them.
- Discussion
Questions
1. What is God speaking to you through the message this morning?
2. Have you been able to counter thoughts of depression, anger, lust, envy, greed, etc. by dismissing the thought and setting your mind on something more productive?
What struggles did you have?
What worked for you that might be helpful to others?
Why is it important to get our minds occupied with something constructive rather than just fight off negative thoughts?
- Do you think the Bible is a revelation of the way God thinks?
If so, how does filling our mind with its truths help reconstruct the way we think? - Seven ways to use your Bible are suggested in the outline above. How have you found each of these to be helpful in your life? Which area do you want to work on most in the immediate future?
