What does it mean to renew our minds, in a practical sense?

Romans 12:2 says, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”

I have to constantly ask myself how (not if) I’m conforming to the superficial values of this world. Then, I have the choice whether or not I’m going to continue to be in compromise of what I know is not God’s best for me. Or, through the power of the Holy Spirit to do what Paul says here in Ephesians 4:21-24:

 “Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from Him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.”

According to God’s Word, we’re in a partnership with the Holy Spirit Who lives within us. One of our key roles in this supernatural and dynamic relationship is to let Him renew our thoughts and our attitudes.

Paul says in Colossians 3:9-10, “You have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him.”

To help answer our original question of how we can renew our minds in a practical sense, look at what Jesus says here in John 17:16-18 as He’s actually praying to the Father for each one of us:

“They do not belong to this world any more than I do. Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth. Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world.”

As we go to God’s Word and intentionally develop our understanding of the truth in Scripture … our minds will be renewed and changed by the Holy Spirit.

May our lives consistently reflect the reality of Christ’s love to those around us, along with His literal never ending presence within us!