Read: Romans 12:1-13
But be transformed by the renewal of your mind . . . (v. 4)
Whether we make New Year’s resolutions or not, we all know that change is one of the hardest things to attempt to do. Habits and behaviors become deeply ingrained in our psyche, and changing our thinking patterns is especially difficult. Sometimes I have wished that I could just “wipe the slate” of my mind and start from scratch to put new habits in place. Still, change is possible—especially when we consider that God has given us a renewed mind in Christ.
In Romans 12, Paul describes how this renewed mind should change us. When we are transformed by a renewed mind, we will not think of ourselves more highly than we ought to think. We will respect others’ gifts and contributions to the “one body in Christ”—the church (vv. 4-5). A renewed mind allows us to love and honor our brothers and sisters in Christ. We will look for practical ways to help others through generosity and hospitality. In short, a renewed mind keeps us from being self-absorbed; instead, we will focus on others.
There are so many great “habits” listed in this passage for us to cultivate and ingrain into our character! And these new habits are possible because God has given us a renewed mind—the mind of Christ (1 Cor. 2:16). It’s all part of being able to discern “what is good and acceptable and perfect” (Rom. 12:2)—the will of God for our lives. —Laura N. Sweet
As you pray, ask God to transform you by the renewing of your mind.
About the Author
Laura N. Sweet is a wife, mother, grandmother, and former Christian schoolteacher from Midland, Michigan. She writes devotional material for both adults and children, and her work has appeared in more than a dozen publications.
