How often do you renew your mind from the toxic thoughts that enter it?
David renewed his mind to be focused on God’s kingdom rather than his own. A kingdom is the effective reach of one’s will. In a monarchy, a king’s will reached to the ends of his kingdom. However, atypical of an eastern ruler, David believed in an authority higher than himself. Similarly, we have the same opportunities to refocus our minds on God’s kingdom within our personal kingdoms on earth. God desires that we experience His kingdom: His divine rule, reign, and order in the hearts and lives of people on this earth now and in the future. This occurs only with the supernatural renewing of our minds.
Paul taught: “Therefore, I urge you brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God — this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12:1-2).
In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus said: “Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10). It was understood that after God’s kingdom came, His will would be done on earth as in heaven. Jesus ushered in God’s kingdom. As a result, this part of Jesus’ prayer calls for the renewing of our minds in order to experience God’s kingdom and will in our lives. This is a 180-degree turn from our world’s standards. Jesus modeled this when He prayed for His Father’s will (see Matthew 26:39).
David advocated the depth and breadth of God’s compassion, emphasizing that He was rich in love (see Psalm 145: 8-9). When we renew our minds to refocus on God’s kingdom, we experience His passion, including His will for our lives. God desires that we transfer His passion to the hearts and lives of others as we renew our minds.
Renew your mind 24/7 to refocus your efforts toward the advancement of God’s kingdom, rather than your own. Memorize Romans 12:1-2. Recite it to God, praying to Him as you seek the renewal of your mind. God will download His passion, namely His will for your life, and you will link that passion with others.
Episode 24: Online with God 24/7 from mitchkrusetv on Vimeo.