Read the transcript from today's video devotional.
In Scripture, I always have to look at what the "instead" is there for, because if I don't know what came before this verse, I won't know what it needs to replace. So, when we look at the verse prior to this, in verse 22, we see Paul telling us that we've got a sinful nature that we have to deal with.
There are thoughts and attitudes and actions that, as Christians, are not right. How do we get out of those patterns? How do we get out of those thoughts? He says to renew them by the Spirit of God.
What Does It Mean to Renew?
To renew something means to make it brand new or to start fresh. I was looking at definitions earlier for that word, and one of them says to bring fresh life into something. To renew your thoughts and attitudes means we have to be okay with allowing ourselves to release those things, not just to release, but also open our hands to replace it with what the Holy Spirit would want to give to us.
As you're in this process of asking the Holy Spirit, "What things do I need to release in order to take on what You've given to me?" be encouraged and know it's not a one and done process. There's a constant renewal of our minds that we have to go through.
The Mind of Christ
The Bible actually says that as believers, we have been given the mind of Christ, which means if we're submitted to Him, we think the way He thinks, we want the things He wants. We desire those things that are deep in His heart as well.
Don't think it's a one and done, and you're fixed and you're good to go. Some days I have to constantly call myself back to the word and remind myself I'm not done yet. We're all still cookin'. We've got some time left to go. The beautiful thing is, Jesus will never give up on you. As your time is coming close to seeing Him face to face, He is always going to be with you as your thoughts and attitudes are renewed by the Holy Spirit.