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Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
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 transformation of Paul on the road to Damascus, as described in Acts 9:1-19, is a profound example of a mind renewed by God’s grace.
Paul, originally known as Saul, was a devout Jew and a fierce persecutor of Christians.
He believed that he was serving God by hunting down and imprisoning the followers of Jesus.
However, on his way to Damascus to arrest more Christians, Paul encountered a blinding light and heard the voice of Jesus asking, “Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?”
This divine encounter left him temporarily blind and profoundly changed.
For three days, Paul remained blind and did not eat or drink anything.
During this time, God sent a disciple named Ananias to restore Paul’s sight and help him experience the fullness of the Holy Spirit.
When Ananias laid his hands on Paul, something like scales fell from his eyes, and he could see again.
Immediately, Paul was baptized, and his mind and heart were renewed.
He went from being a persecutor of Christians to becoming one of the most passionate apostles, spreading the message of Jesus Christ and authoring many books of the New Testament.
Paul’s transformation showcases the power of God’s grace to renew our minds and change our lives radically.
Reflect on areas in your own thinking that need renewal.
Are there negative thoughts, doubts, or fears that are holding you back from fully experiencing God’s grace?
Renewing your mind involves identifying these areas and replacing them with God’s truth.
For example, if you struggle with thoughts of unworthiness, meditate on Scriptures that affirm your identity in Christ, such as 1 Peter 2:9, which declares you are a chosen people and a royal priesthood.
The process of renewing your mind starts with immersing yourself in God’s Word.
As you read and meditate on Scripture, allow God’s truths to penetrate your heart and mind.
This renewal will help you see situations from God’s perspective, enabling you to make decisions that align with His will.
Additionally, seek God in prayer, asking Him to reveal any areas of your thinking that need transformation.
Be open to the Holy Spirit’s guidance and be willing to make changes in your thought patterns.
ASSIGNMENT:
- Prayer and Meditation: Dedicate 15 minutes today to prayer and meditation. Find a quiet place where you can focus without distractions. Begin by asking God to help you identify areas in your mind that need renewal. Then, read and meditate on Scriptures that speak to these areas. For instance, if you are dealing with fear, meditate on 2 Timothy 1:7, which reminds us that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.
- Journaling: Write down any thoughts, revelations, or changes in perspective that come to you during your prayer and meditation time. Reflect on how these new insights can help you transform your thinking and align more closely with God’s will.
- Scripture Memorization: Choose a Bible verse that addresses an area where you need renewal and commit it to memory. Recite this verse throughout the day, allowing it to sink deep into your heart and mind. For example, you might choose Romans 12:2 to remind yourself to not conform to this world but to be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your transforming grace that renews our minds and changes our lives. Help me to identify the areas in my thinking that need renewal. Reveal to me any negative thoughts, doubts, or fears that are not in alignment with Your truth. Fill my mind with Your Word and let Your truths reshape my perspectives. As I meditate on Scripture, let Your Holy Spirit guide me and reveal new insights. Give me the strength and courage to make the necessary changes in my thought patterns. I trust in Your power to transform me, and I commit to living a life that reflects Your will. In Jesus’s name, I pray. Amen.
Until Tomorrow
With A Shepherd’s Love,
Pastor Jackson
TUESDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Sandra Graham
George Calhoon
Steve Michaels
Gail Sparks
Ellen Boyd
Friend of Linda Hodge
Amy Garner’s Mom
Darlene Wiggins
David Burnette
Denise Hulsey – Jordan’s G’mother
Donnie Butler’s Dad
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Ed Mays
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Faith Burnette
Freddie May’s Mom
George & Linda Alexander
James Burnette
Joanie/Jeanie Mom
Jodi Bateman
John McClain’s Mother
June Cronan’s Sister
Kailey Bateman
Kathryn Raines
Kim McClain’s Mother
Krista Hilscher
Larry Barker
Lillanna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Linda Hodges’ Sister
Lonzo Christin
Lori Blount’s Mother
Marynell Ford
Maureen Brown
Michael Stanley
Nora Allison
Pastor Driskell
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Sarah Parker
Scott Lanier
Tom Graham (Sandra’s Husband)
Tom Witcher