As we have discussed in past blogs, Christians have been regenerated through the power of the Holy Spirit into new individuals with the capacity to change ourselves to take positive and biblical actions.
However, to behave in a scriptural manner we first must know how to think correctly. Unfortunately, non-biblical thinking may incite destructive speech and actions which can hurt and adversely influence others.
Christianity is a religion of facts and understanding (Colossians 1:9-10; Ephesians 1:17). Scriptural thinking is productive and healing. How then do we do it? Below is a biblically based process to help change how we think, and ultimately how we act.
In the past several blogs we began to address in sequence: basis of biblical thinking and attitude in our thinking. Now let’s try to put our thinking into action by covering principles of biblical thinking.
Principles
A key verse regarding this process is:
Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
The word ‘prove’ in Greek (the original language of the Bible) is δοκιμάζω (dokimazo), meaning to examine or prove, denoting a positive inference. It was used of a tested warrior in battle. Otherwise, God’s word is truth and so we can depend on it to work in our lives. As we lean on the Bible and see it function, we grow in confidence to trust it and enjoy the good fruits from living obedient and faithful lives.
What is biblical thinking?
Use the acronym ‘4 P’s’:
- Pondering the word – As stated in Romans 12:1 we should transform our thinking based on biblical knowledge. We should ponder these things not just to correct our thinking but also to cause ourselves to know God better in transforming how we communicate with others. This is an active, prospective process, not just when we have problems and need to correct ourselves; it is a daily habit of healthy thinking (1 Timothy 4:16, Colossians 3:1-4; Hebrews 3:1).
- Praise – Keep a habit of commending and thanking God. He deserves it (Hebrews 13:15)! Also, praise keeps us from having unreasonable expectations of others and thinking too highly of ourselves. We should remember God’s goals are above our own (Romans 12:1-2).
- Prayer – We should have a mindset of going to God for all our needs (Hebrews 4:14-16). Instead of complaining or ruminating over situations we should turn instantly to prayer and have a faithful attitude that God will help us (1 Peter 4:12).
- Positive subjects – This perspective is imperative to force our minds to think about things that are positive, true, just, lovely pure, full of praise and wholesome (Philippians 4:8). Remembering healthy thoughts will keep us from becoming discouraged and help us to see the good and the potential in all situations and people. Further, the things we think are ultimately what we speak and thus help us encourage other people.
Renewing our minds to change how we think is a constant challenge as we battle to drive our thoughts to be consistent with the Bible. This process will change how we look at life and others and ultimately how we speak to others. It also provides an opportunity to see God’s Spirit working in our lives to bear fruit as we allow Him to transform us while we seek God through His word. Give it a try!
Summary – Indeed, our thinking processes are the basis of a healthy mindset as well as a fruitful relationship with others and with God.
Thank you for visiting my blog! Join us again next time as we continue our vital discussion on developing a biblical mindset.
Share this important blog with your friends and family!
William C. Stewart, MD
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