the mind of Christ

Sunday, December 18, 2011 (7:42 a.m.)

Most Blessed and Loving Lord Jesus,

I’m here with a giant “thank You” and an equally large request. Thank You for the sleep and rest I got throughout the night. Thank You that I feel much better than I did eight hours ago. Thank You that in my more sleepless stage, I remembered the importance and truth found in the hymn ♫I Surrender All♫

In looking it up in The Celebration Hymnal, I found more truth across the page in ♫I Give It All to You♫ Pleasing to me was the fact that they both referenced the same verse of Scripture. Romans 6:13, “Offer yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life.” Thank You Dearest Jesus in Your work in bringing us from death to life!

Thank You too, as I sat here this morning thinking of all the things I am not going to be able to get done before Tuesday, I remembered another important verse. Philippians 4:13, “for I can do everything God asks me to do with the help of Christ who gives me the strength and power.”

And this brings me directly back to that request I have of You. I confess to behaving quite a bit more witchlike than Christ-like these past several days. I’ve been easily influenced and prone to “go” with whatever it is I am thinking or feeling at any given moment. My request? I would like ready access to the mind of Christ!

I read of it in the second part of 1Corinthians 2:16. “But, strange as it seems, we Christians actually do have within us a portion of the very thoughts and mind of Christ.” Reading about this great Truth at Got Questions Ministries, I find that “having the mind of Christ means sharing the plan, purpose, and perspective of Christ, and it is something that all believers possess. Having the mind of Christ means we understand God’s plan in the world – to bring glory to Himself, restore creation to its original splendor, and provide salvation for sinners.”

The Internet page I am reading uses 1Corithians 2 to clarify the mind of Christ. Verses 5-6, it stands in sharp contrast to the wisdom of man. Verse 7, it involves wisdom from God, once hidden but now revealed. Verses 10-12, it is given to believers through the Spirit of God. Cannot be understood by those without the Spirit (14). Gives believers discernment in spiritual matters (15).

The writers go on to say “In order to have the mind of Christ, one must first have saving faith in Christ (John 1:12; 1 John 5:12). After salvation, the believer lives a life under God’s influence. The Holy Spirit indwells and enlightens the believer, infusing him with wisdom—the mind of Christ. The believer bears a responsibility to yield to the Spirit’s leading (Ephesians 4:30) and to allow the Spirit to transform and renew his mind (Romans 12:1-2).”

As You work in me on this today Lord Jesus, I ask You also to help me T.H.I.N.K. before I speak. Asking myself each time, is it True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, Kind? Come to think of it, I bet I’ll be pretty quiet today.

Thank You Jesus for Your love, Your life and all You came to give and share and teach. Thank You that I get to be a part of Your plan. Use me as only You can. Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(583 words ~ 8:34 a.m.)