Welcome to another episode of the Health for the Spirit, Soul, and Body Blog from Doxa Missions! Today, we’re looking at a vital topic for every believer: renewing the mind. This process helps us align our thoughts with the work God has already done in our re-created spirit.
When we come to Christ, our spirit is made new (2 Corinthians 5:17). But our mind—the part of us that thinks, reasons, and feels—is still influenced by old patterns of thinking. Renewing the mind is the key to walking in God’s will and living a life that reflects His glory. Let’s explore what the Bible teaches about this powerful transformation.
The Mind Must Come into Harmony with the Re-Created Spirit
The Apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of renewing the mind in Romans 12:2 (KJV): "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."
This verse gives us a roadmap: transformation begins when we stop conforming to the world’s way of thinking and start renewing our minds through God’s Word. Why is this so important? Because only a renewed mind can work in harmony with the re-created spirit.
A World-Ruled Mind
Before salvation, our minds are governed by "sense knowledge"—what we perceive through our five senses. This kind of knowledge shapes our decisions and values, but it is limited and cannot comprehend spiritual truths.
1 Corinthians 2:14 (KJV) explains, "But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned."
The natural mind relies on earthly reasoning, which often conflicts with God’s wisdom. For example, the world values self-promotion, but God calls us to humility. The world chases temporary pleasures, while God invites us to seek eternal joy in Him.
Wisdom Comes from God to the Re-Created Spirit
The good news is that when we are born again, God doesn’t leave us to figure things out on our own. He offers us His wisdom, which is far greater than anything the world can provide.
Two Kinds of Wisdom
James 3:15-17 (KJV) contrasts worldly wisdom with godly wisdom: "This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish... But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy."
Worldly wisdom is rooted in selfish ambition and leads to confusion and strife. In contrast, godly wisdom brings peace, purity, and spiritual growth. It equips us to navigate life’s challenges with grace and discernment.
The Role of the Holy Spirit
When we receive the Holy Spirit, He begins to build God’s wisdom within us. He opens the Scriptures, making them come alive and relevant to our daily lives. This divine insight transforms our thinking, allowing us to see the world from God’s perspective.
Wisdom, as the Bible defines it, is the ability to apply knowledge in a way that honors God and benefits others. With renewed minds, we can make decisions that align with His perfect will.
What Is Spirituality?
Spirituality is more than a feeling or a mystical experience—it’s the process of allowing the re-created spirit to rule over our reasoning and emotions. This shift requires us to engage in spiritual warfare, as described in 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (KJV):
"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh... Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ."
The Battle Between Flesh and Spirit
Paul describes a constant struggle between the flesh (our old nature) and the Spirit (Galatians 5:17, KJV): "For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other."
This war takes place in our minds. The flesh resists God’s ways, while the Spirit seeks to lead us into truth. When the Spirit gains mastery over our senses, it brings our thoughts into alignment with God’s Word.
The Fruit of a Renewed Mind
As we allow the Spirit to lead, our minds become fertile ground for "revelation knowledge." Colossians 3:10 (KJV) says, "And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him."
This knowledge goes beyond facts—it’s a deep, personal understanding of God’s truth that transforms how we live.
Keys to Renewing the Mind
Renewing the mind isn’t a one-time event; it’s a daily process of surrender and growth. Here are practical steps to help you on this journey:
1. Meditate on God’s Word
Joshua 1:8 (KJV) gives clear instructions: "This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night."
Meditation involves more than reading—it’s about pondering God’s Word, letting it sink deep into your heart, and applying it to your life. Psalm 1:2-3 (KJV) describes the results of this practice: "And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season."
A mind saturated with Scripture is less likely to be swayed by worldly influences.
2. Give the Word First Place
Make God’s Word your ultimate authority. When faced with decisions or challenges, ask, "What does the Bible say about this?" By prioritizing Scripture, you’ll develop a mindset that naturally aligns with God’s will.
James 1:22 (KJV) reminds us, "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves."
3. Practice Obedience
Transformation happens when we act on what we’ve learned. John 3:21 (KJV) says, "But he that doeth truth cometh to the light." Obedience strengthens our faith and reinforces the truths we’ve embraced.
4. Listen to Your Spirit
The Holy Spirit communicates with our re-created spirit, guiding us into all truth. As you tune in to His voice, you’ll develop greater sensitivity to His leading. This requires stillness, prayer, and a willingness to obey even when it’s uncomfortable.
Living with a Renewed Mind
When your mind is renewed, you’ll notice a profound shift in how you think and live. Romans 8:5 (KJV) describes this transformation: "For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit."
A renewed mind produces peace, joy, and a sense of purpose. It enables you to discern God’s will and walk confidently in His plans for your life.
Renewing the mind is a lifelong journey that requires intentionality and dependence on God. As you meditate on His Word, practice obedience, and listen to the Holy Spirit, you’ll experience the freedom and power of a transformed mind.
Remember, this process involves surrendering to God’s work in you. Romans 12:2 (KJV) beautifully captures the goal: "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind."
How is God calling you to renew your mind today? Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
Thank you for joining us for another episode of the Health for the Spirit, Soul, and Body Blog from Doxa Missions. Be sure to check back for more encouragement and practical insights on living a life that honors God!
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