Scripture: Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Devotional: Real change in one’s life starts by changing the way you think. The NLT translation of this same passage reads: “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.” We often don’t realize that many of our behaviors, even the bad ones, stem from our way of thinking.
For example, if you struggle with negative talk or gossip, that certainly begins with the perspective you have. Maybe you’ve been one of those people who see the glass as half empty instead of half full. And that way of thinking causes you to find fault in a plethora of things in daily life.
But when you choose, by the power of God’s Holy Spirit to put Philippians 4:8-9 into practice, you can quickly find yourself being transformed: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me or seen in me—put it into practice…“
Memorizing and meditating on the truth of Scripture is a powerful way to evoke change in the way you think.
Reflect:
- Give some thought to the ways you may need to change the way you think. What Scriptures might you consider memorizing or meditating upon to help transform your thinking in that area?
- If you need help with Scriptures, use the YouVersion Bible app and search for the subject with which you most struggle.
