The mind, according to the American Psychology Association refers to the consciousness or awareness, particularly as specific to an individual. This is one of the most powerful components of the human being. It controls all major and minor processes in the body. Yet as powerful as this is, the mind, whose physical organ is the brain, is kept in a secured location – the skull.
The wisdom of the creator, God, is such that no part of the body can operate in isolation. One part needs another to properly function. The brain cannot function properly without its resting place in the skeletal system. And the brain relies on other parts of the nervous system to control processes of the body’s functioning.
The mind is a powerful tool. It is where we feel things, make choices, develop opinions, and make sense of the world. It is essential for moulding our actions, directing how we react to outside influences, and enabling us to think back on the past, make plans for the future, and meaningfully interact with our surroundings. It can make or unmake a person, while affecting others, depending on how it is used. This isn’t a psychology class but it’s worthy of note to realise how powerful the mind is.
Every system is controlled by a mind, the central governing unit overseeing processes. And yet as powerful as it may be, it needs the assistance of other parts to properly function.
In this next series, we will be looking at how Christians positionally have the mind of Christ but practically need to effectively live it out. We will be looking at what should govern the mind of a Christian to properly reflect Christ especially in this day and age, as responsible Christians.
Background
To introduce this series, which I have titled, “Transforming minds,” we will have the anchor text from Philippians 4:8
Paul in his bid to end his letter to the Philippians encourages them to govern their thoughts using certain characteristics. Even though this does not end the letter, we can see that this was a timely exhortation and a great way to draw his letter to a close. He asks that for everything he has written to them, as far as engaging the mind is concerned, it is important to realise that transformation will have to begin from the mind, just like he urges the Romans in chapter 12 verse 2 – to be transformed by the renewing of their mind. It is the same for the Philippians and by extension to every Christian even as in Philippians 3, he emphasises pressing toward Christlikeness, which ought to be the goal of every believer.
Now transformation which happens in the mind has implications. When you further read Romans 12:2, it says “…then you will be able to discern what is the good, pleasing and perfect will of God”.
A few things to note; Romans 12:2 beckons to us not to: firstly, conform to the patterns of this world. Secondly, be transformed by the renewing of our mind. When you have engaged this, you will then be able to discern God’s will – good, pleasing and perfect.
We can then understand what Paul is driving at. He is calling us to govern our thoughts using characteristics in line with God’s will. He encourages that our thinking must be true, honourable, right, pure, lovely, commendable, excellence, and praiseworthy.
Brace yourself as we journey on transforming our minds in alignment with God’s eternal word, all to the glory of God.
Shalom!
Inspired To Inspire! 
Leave a comment