Transformed By Ideas by Zachary Watson

Transformed By Ideas by Zachary Watson

One of the greatest joys in the Christian life is to think about God. There is a beautiful peace that comes when we let our minds rest on the nature and character of God. Charles Spurgeon put it this way, “Would you lose your sorrows? Would you drown your cares? Then go plunge yourself in the Godhead’s deepest sea; be lost in His immensity; and you shall come forth as from a couch of rest, refreshed and invigorated.”

However, it is not always easy to consistently think about God in this way. We fight our flesh that tempts us, a world that is trying to distract us and a devil that is trying to destroy us. God has given us the means to overcome these enemies, but not without a cost. The cost is that we must intentionally, diligently and prayerfully cultivate a Godly thought life.

A Godly thought life can be compared to a tree. A passage of scripture begins as an idea, or metaphorically, a seed. When we actively listen to or read a passage of scripture, the idea is planted in the soil of our hearts. As we meditate and obey the passage, the idea grows and develops roots within us. When the idea is fully grown, it becomes an attitude and an aspect of who we are. When it reaches this stage, the idea becomes a tree of life that can bless both ourselves, and others.

This is what Paul had in mind when he said “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). Paul is saying that we shouldn’t let the world shape who we are and what we think about. Instead, we should be transformed, which in the original language means “metamorphose” or “to change completely in form or nature.” Paul is literally saying that we become an entirely different person when we allow God’s Word to change our hearts and minds.

When we are transformed in the way Paul describes, we become a powerful tool against the devil and a strong witness for Christ. No matter where our thought life has been, let use seek to root out thoughts that are selfish and disrespectful, and cultivate thoughts that will honor and cherish the presence of Christ in our lives.

CONVICTION

We fight with ideas and attitudes.

PRACTICAL CHALLENGES

- Read The Bible every day (even if it’s just one verse)

- Meditate on a Bible verse that has comforted you

- Meditate on a Bible verse that has challenged you

- Obey the commands of Christ