We live in a society where change is either embraced or resisted. In this life there are people that are looking to change things, and many people that are at peace with the status quo. Now grant it all changes are not good, and all accepted things are not good as well. I believe with all my heart there are areas in our lives that need change, and some that need to remain.
However, God has called every believer to be “renewed.” When you hear the word “renew” what comes to your mind? Webster’s dictionary defines renew as “to make like new, restore to freshness, vigor, or perfection.” In the Book of Romans 12:1-2 we are challenged by the Apostle Paul to be transformed by the “renewing” of the mind.
In our culture today we would be more likely to speak of a “change of heart” than a renewal of the mind. Paul, however, calls us to permit the Spirit to transform our minds, knowing that the person who learns to think Godly thoughts will soon experience a changed heart as well. Godly thoughts transform every aspect of our lives. As an example, the person who adopts Godly thinking often enjoys improved health, because he/she learns to regard his/her body as a temple of the Holy Spirit and is therefore more likely to treat his/her body with new respect.
That is not to say that Christians do not engage in unhealthy practices, but the more Godly our thinking, the less likely we are to become victims of drug abuse, alcohol abuse, tobacco, meaningless sex, worry, stress, and other unhealthy practices. When we change the way we think we will change the way we live! As we don’t conform to the ways of the world we will have the opportunity to be transformed to the ways of God. The process of transformation is meant to happen in body, in soul, and in spirit!
Where in your thought process do you need the transformation of God? The thing we need to know about transformation is that it isn’t a one-time event! The Greek word for “transformed” is the Greek word “metamorphosis” which happens when we “renew” from the Greek word “anakainōsis” which means to be changed into a new kind as opposed to the former corrupt state of our mind! The fact remains, whether we like change or not we all need to be “renewed” on a daily basis. This Sunday at South Side we will begin our series entitled “Renew.” Be sure to come early, and enjoy a fresh cup of coffee and snack at Café Connect. We have childcare and children’s classes for all ages. Also, South Side offers two worship times being 8:30 & 10:45. We hope to see you Sunday!
In Christ,
Barry Pettit
Lead Pastor
South Side Church of Christ
www.southsidewch.com
