January 22, 2023 MIND SET
Romans 8:5-8,12-13 “For those who are according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who are according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For the mind set on the flesh id death, but the life set on the Spirit is life and peace, because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the Law of God, for it is not even able to do so; and those who are in the flesh cannot please God.” “So then, brethren, we are under obligation not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh-for if you are living according to the flesh, you must die; but if by the Spirit you are putting to death the deeds of the body, you will live.”
One clear truth that we find in Romans chapters seven and eight, as well as in many other scriptures, is that a believer can choose to live according to the flesh; but it is also clear that if they make that choice, it is just that-their choice, since the power of sin over us has been broken and we have been made new. It is a fact that the flesh battles against the Spirit, but the flesh is always defeated when we live according to the Spirit. Our mind-set is critical; our mind can be set on the flesh, or on the Spirit. If you are employed, it’s likely your mind set is to go to work and do a good job. If your goal is to be a professional athlete, then your mind is set on practicing your chosen sport. Like so, if we are followers of Christ, then our mind should be set on growing in the faith, learning of Him, following His commands and teachings, and listening to and obeying the promptings of the Holy Spirit. If our mind is set on acquiring riches and material gain, popularity, looks, or whatever, then our mind is set on the flesh. The key is, where is our heart and what is our main pursuit in life. There is nothing wrong with having material possessions or being in good physical condition and good health, etc; it’s a problem when things other than knowing God and walking in His ways become our priorities in life. These verses call for a self-evaluation; let us look within and determine if our mind set is on the Spirit of God who is working in us, or if our mind set is on doing what pleases self-the flesh. If we find that our mind is set on the flesh, then we are called to die to self if we are to experience God. The good news is that the mind set on the Spirit, and we are saying no to the flesh, then we will live!
Colossians 3:1-3 “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.”
Blessings,
Buddy
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