Saturday, January 23, 2010 Print Article
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It's All In Your Mind
Dr. Creflo A. Dollar
Your mind holds tremendous creative ability. That's why God gave you an imagination--so that you could create mental pictures, add faith to them and see those pictures manifest in your life.
Once you have an image in your mind of something you want to do or become, nothing can stop that image from coming to pass. Whatever you meditate on will become the blueprint for your reality. Too often, though, Christians suffer from "stinking thinking." They give the devil control of their minds by meditating on thoughts that do not line up with the Word of God. Then they reap the results of the curse because their carnal mindset produces the fruit of the flesh described in Galatians 5:19-21.
To keep the devil from gaining a foothold in your life, you must develop a sound mind that is completely controlled and directed by the Holy Spirit. In other words, you must renew your mind with the Word of God. Romans 12:2 says, "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." When you become born again, your spirit instantly changes; you are recreated in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Yet your mind is not recreated. You must conform your thinking continually and on purpose; it is not an overnight, one-time event. Renewing your mind to God's Word every day is vital. By reading the Scriptures and meditating on them thoroughly, your thinking will be transformed to line up with the mind of Christ. And when you have the mind of Christ, you can do anything!
When you set your mind on the Word of God, you'll also experience soul prosperity and peace (3 John 2). The Bible says that the issues of life flow out of the heart (Proverbs 4:23). The word heart in this scripture actually refers to your soul--your mind, your will and your emotions. If you can control your mind, you can control your destiny. But it will take a quality decision on your part to dedicate your life to changing the way you think.
First Thessalonians 5:23 says, "And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." It is God's will that your mind, will and emotions be whole, with nothing missing or broken. As a Believer, you can receive a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). It is then up to you to enforce and maintain soundness of mind by keeping your thoughts and imaginations in line with God and His Word (Isaiah 26:3).
When your mind is focused and directed by the Word, you will position yourself for success. You'll have wisdom, discernment, insight and the ability to accomplish anything. A renewed, Word-controlled mind guarantees abundance and prosperity in every area of your life. Don't let another day go by without a daily dose of meditation. Set your mind on the Word of God and let it become the focal point of your life and purpose!
Dr. Creflo A. Dollar is the senior pastor of World Changers Church International, 25,000 member church in College Park, Georgia. He is committed to changing the world one person at a time, and his award-winning "Changing Your World" television broadcast reaches nearly one billion homes worldwide. Visit www.CrefloDollarMinistries.org to learn more. Click here to browse and purchase Books, CDs, and DVDs by Dr. Creflo A. Dollar!
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Friday, January 22, 2010
The Battle of The Mind
Friday, January 22, 2010 Print Article
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The Battle of the Mind
Dr. Frederick K.C. Price
Everyone has to fight the battle that goes on in the mind. Our thought life determines where we are in the things of God. When people meditate on what is wrong or the negative side of a situation, they become blinded by the problem and never see the escape available to them. Our Heavenly Father has given us a way to bring forth light, and that is through diligent study and meditation of the Word of God. In Hosea 4:6 God tells us, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge."
As Christians we are going to have to learn how to apply Bible knowledge to our lives, if we want to win the battles of life. God instructs the Believer on how to control their thought life by utilizing His whole armor. Ephesians 6:10-17 says, "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;"
The Apostle Paul uses armor, the battle dress of the first-century Roman soldier, as a metaphor for God's spiritual armor. Clearly, the military metaphor is intended to show that we are engaged in an active battle. Therefore, Believers must recognize that they are in warfare everyday, and that the battlefield is our minds. The whole armor of God has been provided to help us guard against the enemy of our mind--Satan. Satan's only weapon against us is through the mind. If he can put thoughts, ideas and suggestions in our minds, then he can control our actions. We must come to understand that ignorance of the Word and victory over life's battles are impossible roommates.
If we desire the overcoming life of Jesus then we will need to "take up the whole armor of God." We are not to focus in on only part of the armor to the neglect of the other combat coverings, if we do so we will find ourselves defeated. It is the whole armor-knowledge of the Word of God-that gives us the victory. We need to take each piece of the armor as illustrated by Paul and apply them to our life so that we can benefit from its protection.
Family, it is critical that we acknowledge that the warfare is not against physical forces but against powers that have authority in the spirit realm. Paul not only warns the Believer of a clearly defined demonic structure, but also instructs us to take up the whole armor of God in order to maintain a battle stance against these unseen forces.
Satan's mode of operation has not changed. He continues to use the same mind game that he used on Eve in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:1). We are going to have to recognize his deceptive ways and stand against them with the Word of God.
Our battle is clearly spiritual. Satan launches assaults on the mind in order to affect the spiritual aspect of our lives. The mind is like the door through which the enemy has access. If Satan can influence our thoughts, he can control every aspect of our lives. Therefore, we must examine every thought that comes to our minds. Are they the fiery darts, the evil day and or the wiles of the devil? Every thought has either a life or death component attached to it. Once a thought is allowed to have access in our lives, it begins its subtle work.
This is the reason God tells us in Romans 12:1-2: "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."
Dr. Frederick K.C. Price is the founder and pastor of Crenshaw Christian Center West in Los Angeles and CCC East in Manhattan. To obtain more information about his ministry, please call (800) 927-3436 or visit www.faithdome.org. Click here to browse and purchase MP3 sermons by Dr. Frederick K.C. Price!
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The Battle of the Mind
Dr. Frederick K.C. Price
Everyone has to fight the battle that goes on in the mind. Our thought life determines where we are in the things of God. When people meditate on what is wrong or the negative side of a situation, they become blinded by the problem and never see the escape available to them. Our Heavenly Father has given us a way to bring forth light, and that is through diligent study and meditation of the Word of God. In Hosea 4:6 God tells us, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge."
As Christians we are going to have to learn how to apply Bible knowledge to our lives, if we want to win the battles of life. God instructs the Believer on how to control their thought life by utilizing His whole armor. Ephesians 6:10-17 says, "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;"
The Apostle Paul uses armor, the battle dress of the first-century Roman soldier, as a metaphor for God's spiritual armor. Clearly, the military metaphor is intended to show that we are engaged in an active battle. Therefore, Believers must recognize that they are in warfare everyday, and that the battlefield is our minds. The whole armor of God has been provided to help us guard against the enemy of our mind--Satan. Satan's only weapon against us is through the mind. If he can put thoughts, ideas and suggestions in our minds, then he can control our actions. We must come to understand that ignorance of the Word and victory over life's battles are impossible roommates.
If we desire the overcoming life of Jesus then we will need to "take up the whole armor of God." We are not to focus in on only part of the armor to the neglect of the other combat coverings, if we do so we will find ourselves defeated. It is the whole armor-knowledge of the Word of God-that gives us the victory. We need to take each piece of the armor as illustrated by Paul and apply them to our life so that we can benefit from its protection.
Family, it is critical that we acknowledge that the warfare is not against physical forces but against powers that have authority in the spirit realm. Paul not only warns the Believer of a clearly defined demonic structure, but also instructs us to take up the whole armor of God in order to maintain a battle stance against these unseen forces.
Satan's mode of operation has not changed. He continues to use the same mind game that he used on Eve in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:1). We are going to have to recognize his deceptive ways and stand against them with the Word of God.
Our battle is clearly spiritual. Satan launches assaults on the mind in order to affect the spiritual aspect of our lives. The mind is like the door through which the enemy has access. If Satan can influence our thoughts, he can control every aspect of our lives. Therefore, we must examine every thought that comes to our minds. Are they the fiery darts, the evil day and or the wiles of the devil? Every thought has either a life or death component attached to it. Once a thought is allowed to have access in our lives, it begins its subtle work.
This is the reason God tells us in Romans 12:1-2: "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."
Dr. Frederick K.C. Price is the founder and pastor of Crenshaw Christian Center West in Los Angeles and CCC East in Manhattan. To obtain more information about his ministry, please call (800) 927-3436 or visit www.faithdome.org. Click here to browse and purchase MP3 sermons by Dr. Frederick K.C. Price!
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Time and Patience
Thursday, January 21, 2010 Print Article
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Time And Patience
Lisa Birch
What does it really take to renew the mind?
To shift negative thinking to positive?
To transform hopeless thoughts into more productive views?
To look at every aspect of your life with sincere optimism?
The answer to these questions isn't deep. In fact it's rather simple. It all comes down to time and patience with God. You become what you spend the most time with.
It's impossible to take in God's word diligently and increasingly over time and not become more like Him. An ongoing plan to read His word, say it, memorize it, write it, meditate on it, trust it, and then read and say it again will not only allow God to overtake our minds, but will also let Him drive our actions and eventually pervade our being.
While you're spending time with Him, you might as well enjoy the slow-cook process.
Because a quick drive-thru experience isn't enough to renew the mind. That's often the biggest struggle for God's impatient children. But assistance comes to those who ask. At your request, He'll equip you with the Great Helper, the Holy Spirit, to give you longevity and the power to wait peacefully while divine transformation takes place.
Maybe you want to take down your defenses.
Or come off of constant guilt trips.
Perhaps you really want to manage money better.
Or pull back from being a control freak.
Whether you need to let go of pride or passivity, invest some serious time and patience with Your Creator and He promises to make all things new.
And that includes you and your mind.
Publisher of Vertical Fix online magazine, Lisa Birch has a passion for music with integrity. Along with her husband Chris, Lisa is the co-founder of Vertical Fix internet radio. A 15-year writer and editor, Lisa has contributed writings for corporate, creative, editorial and several ministerial environments. For more information about Lisa, log onto www.verticalfix.com.
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Time And Patience
Lisa Birch
What does it really take to renew the mind?
To shift negative thinking to positive?
To transform hopeless thoughts into more productive views?
To look at every aspect of your life with sincere optimism?
The answer to these questions isn't deep. In fact it's rather simple. It all comes down to time and patience with God. You become what you spend the most time with.
It's impossible to take in God's word diligently and increasingly over time and not become more like Him. An ongoing plan to read His word, say it, memorize it, write it, meditate on it, trust it, and then read and say it again will not only allow God to overtake our minds, but will also let Him drive our actions and eventually pervade our being.
While you're spending time with Him, you might as well enjoy the slow-cook process.
Because a quick drive-thru experience isn't enough to renew the mind. That's often the biggest struggle for God's impatient children. But assistance comes to those who ask. At your request, He'll equip you with the Great Helper, the Holy Spirit, to give you longevity and the power to wait peacefully while divine transformation takes place.
Maybe you want to take down your defenses.
Or come off of constant guilt trips.
Perhaps you really want to manage money better.
Or pull back from being a control freak.
Whether you need to let go of pride or passivity, invest some serious time and patience with Your Creator and He promises to make all things new.
And that includes you and your mind.
Publisher of Vertical Fix online magazine, Lisa Birch has a passion for music with integrity. Along with her husband Chris, Lisa is the co-founder of Vertical Fix internet radio. A 15-year writer and editor, Lisa has contributed writings for corporate, creative, editorial and several ministerial environments. For more information about Lisa, log onto www.verticalfix.com.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Classic Conditioning
Wednesday, January 20, 2010 Print Article
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Classic Conditioning
Milan Ford
In a set of experiments that spanned ten years (1890-1900), Russian psychologist Ivan Pavlov made a startling discovery regarding the cognitive learning habits and behavior of dogs.
If you happened to stay awake in your college Psychology class (I barely did), you may remember hearing about this experiment.
Pavlov attached a device to a dog in order to measure the amount that dog would salivate when hungry. Pavlov then would ring a bell or tone every time he gave the dog food. He did this several times.
Ring the bell.
Feed the dog.
Ring the bell.
Feed the dog.
Pavlov repeated this sequence until he noticed that the dog would eventually salivate at the sound of the bell, whether there was food available or not.
Believe it or not, this kind of automatic, non-conscious learning is not only present in dogs and other animals, but it is present in us as humans as well. At the sight of a favorite restaurant, or the smell of a familiar meal, a previously learned response or experience can instantly be triggered. Especially if the previous experience was a favorable one.
Pavlov called this pattern of learned behavior 'classic conditioning' - a term he coined back in the early 1900's. Fast forward 100 years, I wonder what Pavlov (a seminary dropout) would have to say about how many of us as believers if he were alive today.
Although difficult to admit, many of us have allowed certain religious traditions and practices to limit our perspective of God, causing our relationship with Him to be bound by a mindset that what may have helped us earlier in our walk with Him, will still sustain us for where we now need to go today.
We pray.
And expect God to answer.
We give.
And expect God to give back.
Many of us even take time out to serve.
And as a result, we expect God to serve us.
While this conditioned pattern of faith may have fed us when we first believed and began our relationship with God, as we continue to mature as believers, it is very dangerous to believe that we can control how God desires to operate in our lives today, simply because of something He may have done for us on yesterday.
News flash: You and I are not a stimulus provider for God.
In Romans 12:1-2, you'll find these words:
"I beseech you therefore brethren by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."
Now more than ever before, we as believers must RENEW our minds as to what God's will is for our lives, and what that will is specifically for TODAY. As children, we are trained by a world system, as well as systems inside of the local church, that 'practice makes perfect.' Well unfortunately, that is incorrect.
Practice does not make perfect.
Practice makes PERMANENT.
If you and I don't take an examination of what we practice, especially when it comes to our relationship with God, we will live our life salivating, Sunday after Sunday, waiting for God to ring a bell of hope about something He has ALREADY given us the ability to conquer.
What God did for you in 2009 cannot be compared to what He desires to do for you in 2010. God cannot be tamed. He cannot be controlled.
No matter how hard you and I try.
Milan Ford has been a leader (and survivor) of ministry within the local church for most of his life. A lover of Red Vines Licorice and all things pointing North, Milan released his first book, 83 Things I Wish The Black Church Would Stop Doing in December (2009), which was recently ranked #1 on Amazon.com (Religion & Spirituality / African-American). You can find Milan rambling and writing at at ThePewView.com.
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Classic Conditioning
Milan Ford
In a set of experiments that spanned ten years (1890-1900), Russian psychologist Ivan Pavlov made a startling discovery regarding the cognitive learning habits and behavior of dogs.
If you happened to stay awake in your college Psychology class (I barely did), you may remember hearing about this experiment.
Pavlov attached a device to a dog in order to measure the amount that dog would salivate when hungry. Pavlov then would ring a bell or tone every time he gave the dog food. He did this several times.
Ring the bell.
Feed the dog.
Ring the bell.
Feed the dog.
Pavlov repeated this sequence until he noticed that the dog would eventually salivate at the sound of the bell, whether there was food available or not.
Believe it or not, this kind of automatic, non-conscious learning is not only present in dogs and other animals, but it is present in us as humans as well. At the sight of a favorite restaurant, or the smell of a familiar meal, a previously learned response or experience can instantly be triggered. Especially if the previous experience was a favorable one.
Pavlov called this pattern of learned behavior 'classic conditioning' - a term he coined back in the early 1900's. Fast forward 100 years, I wonder what Pavlov (a seminary dropout) would have to say about how many of us as believers if he were alive today.
Although difficult to admit, many of us have allowed certain religious traditions and practices to limit our perspective of God, causing our relationship with Him to be bound by a mindset that what may have helped us earlier in our walk with Him, will still sustain us for where we now need to go today.
We pray.
And expect God to answer.
We give.
And expect God to give back.
Many of us even take time out to serve.
And as a result, we expect God to serve us.
While this conditioned pattern of faith may have fed us when we first believed and began our relationship with God, as we continue to mature as believers, it is very dangerous to believe that we can control how God desires to operate in our lives today, simply because of something He may have done for us on yesterday.
News flash: You and I are not a stimulus provider for God.
In Romans 12:1-2, you'll find these words:
"I beseech you therefore brethren by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."
Now more than ever before, we as believers must RENEW our minds as to what God's will is for our lives, and what that will is specifically for TODAY. As children, we are trained by a world system, as well as systems inside of the local church, that 'practice makes perfect.' Well unfortunately, that is incorrect.
Practice does not make perfect.
Practice makes PERMANENT.
If you and I don't take an examination of what we practice, especially when it comes to our relationship with God, we will live our life salivating, Sunday after Sunday, waiting for God to ring a bell of hope about something He has ALREADY given us the ability to conquer.
What God did for you in 2009 cannot be compared to what He desires to do for you in 2010. God cannot be tamed. He cannot be controlled.
No matter how hard you and I try.
Milan Ford has been a leader (and survivor) of ministry within the local church for most of his life. A lover of Red Vines Licorice and all things pointing North, Milan released his first book, 83 Things I Wish The Black Church Would Stop Doing in December (2009), which was recently ranked #1 on Amazon.com (Religion & Spirituality / African-American). You can find Milan rambling and writing at at ThePewView.com.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
God Change My Mind
God Change My Mind
Bishop Donald Hilliard
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. Romans 12:2 (KJV)
I need God to change my mindset!
We cannot blame other people for what we don't have. Our mindset is often what hinders us. When our minds are stuck in impoverished thinking, slave thinking, slothful thinking, lazy thinking, we are in the same place and have never stepped out and trusted God. We have to change the way we think! We have to change our mindset! We must change our mindset! We must change our mindset from a slavery mindset. We no longer have to be bound by the system-a system that trapped our forefathers and tries to hinder us. Jesus has freed us from this dreadful past. We're at another level now.
Thank God for the efforts of our forefathers. God used them and now he wants to use you but you've got to change your mindset. It's a process. It doesn't happen overnight. It's a process of growth and maturity. The more you get ahold of God and follow his ways, the greater change you will see in your life. The more you get into the Word and the more you seek His face in prayer and fasting, the more character of God you get in your life, the more ordered your children, your family and your life will be. Stop trying to do it your way, Let go and Let God change your mindset.
Pray with me: God, all this time I've been trying to do it on my own. I've been trying to do it the way I've seen others do it. I've tried to go it the safe way but my safe way was not in trusting you. I ask that you change my mindset. I no longer want to be bound by the old man's mindset. I want to do it your way. Lord, I surrender until you; renew my mind, transform me that I may walk in that which you have purposed me. In Jesus' Name, amen!
Bishop Donald Hilliard, Jr. is the Pastor of one church in three locations in New Jersey: Cathedral International in Perth Amboy, Cathedral Assembly by the Shore in Asbury Park, and Cathedral Assembly in the Fields in Plainfield. Dr. Hilliard's willingness to say "YES" to the Lord fostered his ability to grow the church from 125 in 1983 to well over 5,000 members today. As a result of Dr. Hilliard's unwavering faith, multifaceted mindset, and ability to trust in the Lord, over fifty ministries are at work within the three cities. For more information on Bishop Hilliard's ministry, visit www.thecathedral.org. Click here to purchase After the Fall by Dr. Donald Hilliard, Jr.!
© Bishop Donald Hilliard all rights reserved.
Bishop Donald Hilliard
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. Romans 12:2 (KJV)
I need God to change my mindset!
We cannot blame other people for what we don't have. Our mindset is often what hinders us. When our minds are stuck in impoverished thinking, slave thinking, slothful thinking, lazy thinking, we are in the same place and have never stepped out and trusted God. We have to change the way we think! We have to change our mindset! We must change our mindset! We must change our mindset from a slavery mindset. We no longer have to be bound by the system-a system that trapped our forefathers and tries to hinder us. Jesus has freed us from this dreadful past. We're at another level now.
Thank God for the efforts of our forefathers. God used them and now he wants to use you but you've got to change your mindset. It's a process. It doesn't happen overnight. It's a process of growth and maturity. The more you get ahold of God and follow his ways, the greater change you will see in your life. The more you get into the Word and the more you seek His face in prayer and fasting, the more character of God you get in your life, the more ordered your children, your family and your life will be. Stop trying to do it your way, Let go and Let God change your mindset.
Pray with me: God, all this time I've been trying to do it on my own. I've been trying to do it the way I've seen others do it. I've tried to go it the safe way but my safe way was not in trusting you. I ask that you change my mindset. I no longer want to be bound by the old man's mindset. I want to do it your way. Lord, I surrender until you; renew my mind, transform me that I may walk in that which you have purposed me. In Jesus' Name, amen!
Bishop Donald Hilliard, Jr. is the Pastor of one church in three locations in New Jersey: Cathedral International in Perth Amboy, Cathedral Assembly by the Shore in Asbury Park, and Cathedral Assembly in the Fields in Plainfield. Dr. Hilliard's willingness to say "YES" to the Lord fostered his ability to grow the church from 125 in 1983 to well over 5,000 members today. As a result of Dr. Hilliard's unwavering faith, multifaceted mindset, and ability to trust in the Lord, over fifty ministries are at work within the three cities. For more information on Bishop Hilliard's ministry, visit www.thecathedral.org. Click here to purchase After the Fall by Dr. Donald Hilliard, Jr.!
© Bishop Donald Hilliard all rights reserved.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Keep a Stedfast Mind
Monday, January 18, 2010 Print Article
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Keep a Steadfast Mind
Bishop Keith Butler
Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Isaiah 26:3
You probably know your share of people who are messing up their lives big time, and some are already on the brink of destruction. Why is this the case? Well, most people don't practice keeping a steadfast mind.
When your mind is steadfast, then it is firmly fixed in place. Isaiah 26 says, "...whose mind is stayed on thee..." The word 'stayed' is important here because it means your mind is not subject to change. Your mind is firm in belief, determination, or adherence.
For years, I've noticed that many successful people master this issue of the mind. They have learned how to be firmly fixed, or to take the position to follow after what is the right course of action. They will apply their decision to the end and do whatever it takes to sharpen themselves once their minds are determined. This is certainly true regarding the things of God. You'll have victory in your life once you learn to keep a steadfast mind.
Isaiah 26 continues by giving you the reason why you need a steadfast mind. God will keep you in perfect peace. Having perfect peace is what you should strive for. It means regardless of what comes your way, you're cool and even-tempered. Nothing can upset, bother, or destroy you. You're at rest with things and you operate in total confidence.
When you learn to trust in God, the result is perfect peace. Yet, there are many Christians who don't have this peace. Let's examine why. James 1:5 says, "A double minded man is unstable in all his ways." You can't go around your whole life as a man or woman of two minds, who is always hesitating. That's being uncertain and unreliable about everything you think, feel, or decide. A steadfast mind is necessary in order to function in God's perfect peace.
James, chapter 5 outlines the problem of an unstable person: he's unstable in all his ways. Do you understand that a double-minded man is not just unstable in one area, but every single area of his life?
But, you can have a steadfast mind! Just keep your mind stayed on God and His principles, and it will produce perfect peace and victory in your life.
Scripture references: Romans 8:6
Bishop Keith A. Butler is the founder and pastor of Word of Faith International Christian Center in Southfield, MI, and Word of Faith Christian Center in San Antonio, TX. Bishop Butler ministers extensively in churches, conferences, and seminars throughout the U.S. and abroad with an emphasis on instruction and no-nonsense, practical application of God's Word. Click here to browse and purchase MP3 sermons by Bishop Keith Butler!
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Keep a Steadfast Mind
Bishop Keith Butler
Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Isaiah 26:3
You probably know your share of people who are messing up their lives big time, and some are already on the brink of destruction. Why is this the case? Well, most people don't practice keeping a steadfast mind.
When your mind is steadfast, then it is firmly fixed in place. Isaiah 26 says, "...whose mind is stayed on thee..." The word 'stayed' is important here because it means your mind is not subject to change. Your mind is firm in belief, determination, or adherence.
For years, I've noticed that many successful people master this issue of the mind. They have learned how to be firmly fixed, or to take the position to follow after what is the right course of action. They will apply their decision to the end and do whatever it takes to sharpen themselves once their minds are determined. This is certainly true regarding the things of God. You'll have victory in your life once you learn to keep a steadfast mind.
Isaiah 26 continues by giving you the reason why you need a steadfast mind. God will keep you in perfect peace. Having perfect peace is what you should strive for. It means regardless of what comes your way, you're cool and even-tempered. Nothing can upset, bother, or destroy you. You're at rest with things and you operate in total confidence.
When you learn to trust in God, the result is perfect peace. Yet, there are many Christians who don't have this peace. Let's examine why. James 1:5 says, "A double minded man is unstable in all his ways." You can't go around your whole life as a man or woman of two minds, who is always hesitating. That's being uncertain and unreliable about everything you think, feel, or decide. A steadfast mind is necessary in order to function in God's perfect peace.
James, chapter 5 outlines the problem of an unstable person: he's unstable in all his ways. Do you understand that a double-minded man is not just unstable in one area, but every single area of his life?
But, you can have a steadfast mind! Just keep your mind stayed on God and His principles, and it will produce perfect peace and victory in your life.
Scripture references: Romans 8:6
Bishop Keith A. Butler is the founder and pastor of Word of Faith International Christian Center in Southfield, MI, and Word of Faith Christian Center in San Antonio, TX. Bishop Butler ministers extensively in churches, conferences, and seminars throughout the U.S. and abroad with an emphasis on instruction and no-nonsense, practical application of God's Word. Click here to browse and purchase MP3 sermons by Bishop Keith Butler!
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Let This Mind Be in You
Sunday, January 17, 2010 Print Article
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Let This Mind be in You
Alan Riley
One of my favorite passages in the New Testament is found in the second chapter of Paul's letter to the Philippians.
The book of Philippians is special because of who wrote it, who it was written to, why it was written, and where the author was when he wrote it.
The book was written by Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles who took the gospel to the world. It was written to the church at Philippi to thank them for a financial gift brought to Paul from the church. Paul had a very special place in his heart for the Philippian church, and the warm, loving words of the letter reflect this. It was written from a Roman jail cell about ten years after Paul first preached in Philippi. It was on that visit that Lydia was saved and, after an earthquake freed the prisoners, but none fled, the Philippian jailer and his family came to know Christ.
Now Paul is Nero's prisoner in Rome, confined in a Roman prison under difficult circumstances. Yet this letter brims with joy, assurance and victory. The second chapter contains what scholars tell us is probably the earliest recorded Christian hymn, and a passionate plea from Paul for us to imitate the loving and humble spirit of our Lord Jesus.
The word that is translated "mind" in the Bible sometimes refers to our thinking process, but most often it refers not to the process but to what we are thinking - to our attitude. As early as the book of Proverbs, we are told "as a man thinks in his heart, so is he (Proverbs 23:7). In this passage, Paul says, "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." (NKJV) The New International version says it this way: "Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus." The attitude of Jesus was that of humility and love. It was His humility that allowed Him - the sinless Son of God - to take on the role of a servant, and even to die a humiliating death at the hands of men.
Verses 5-11 contain the lyrics to that early hymn of the church. The Message translates the hymn this way:
Though He was God,
He did not think of equality with God as something to cling to
Instead, he gave up his divine privileges
He took the humble position of a slave
and was born as a human being
When He appeared in human form,
He humbled himself in obedience to God
And died a criminal's death on a cross.
Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor
And gave him the name above all other names,
That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
In heaven and on earth and under the earth,
And every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
To the glory of God the Father.
For over two thousand years, the followers of Jesus Christ have sung these words in many different languages and to many different tunes. Yet the message is the same: Because of His obedience and humility, God has given to Jesus a name that is above every name, and everyone in heaven and on earth will bow and acknowledge that He is Lord.
And in that second chapter of Philippians, Paul tells us that we need to have the same humility, the same love, the same compassion, and the same obedience as Jesus as we relate to each other in the family of God and as we reach out to the world around us to tell them about His love.
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus!
Alan Riley is Vice President for Ministry and Media Development for 316 Networks (www.316Networks.com), Streaming Faith's sister media property. From 2006-2009 he served as Director of Web Operations and Managing Editor for Streaming Faith. An ordained Baptist Minister, Alan is a frequent contributor to the Streaming Faith Daily Devotional. He can sometimes be found blogging at www.alansblog.com or more often opining in 140 characters or less at www.Twitter.com/AlanRiley.
© Alan Riley all rights reserved.
Share this devotional on: Facebook MySpace
Leave a Comment
Let This Mind be in You
Alan Riley
One of my favorite passages in the New Testament is found in the second chapter of Paul's letter to the Philippians.
The book of Philippians is special because of who wrote it, who it was written to, why it was written, and where the author was when he wrote it.
The book was written by Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles who took the gospel to the world. It was written to the church at Philippi to thank them for a financial gift brought to Paul from the church. Paul had a very special place in his heart for the Philippian church, and the warm, loving words of the letter reflect this. It was written from a Roman jail cell about ten years after Paul first preached in Philippi. It was on that visit that Lydia was saved and, after an earthquake freed the prisoners, but none fled, the Philippian jailer and his family came to know Christ.
Now Paul is Nero's prisoner in Rome, confined in a Roman prison under difficult circumstances. Yet this letter brims with joy, assurance and victory. The second chapter contains what scholars tell us is probably the earliest recorded Christian hymn, and a passionate plea from Paul for us to imitate the loving and humble spirit of our Lord Jesus.
The word that is translated "mind" in the Bible sometimes refers to our thinking process, but most often it refers not to the process but to what we are thinking - to our attitude. As early as the book of Proverbs, we are told "as a man thinks in his heart, so is he (Proverbs 23:7). In this passage, Paul says, "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." (NKJV) The New International version says it this way: "Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus." The attitude of Jesus was that of humility and love. It was His humility that allowed Him - the sinless Son of God - to take on the role of a servant, and even to die a humiliating death at the hands of men.
Verses 5-11 contain the lyrics to that early hymn of the church. The Message translates the hymn this way:
Though He was God,
He did not think of equality with God as something to cling to
Instead, he gave up his divine privileges
He took the humble position of a slave
and was born as a human being
When He appeared in human form,
He humbled himself in obedience to God
And died a criminal's death on a cross.
Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor
And gave him the name above all other names,
That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
In heaven and on earth and under the earth,
And every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
To the glory of God the Father.
For over two thousand years, the followers of Jesus Christ have sung these words in many different languages and to many different tunes. Yet the message is the same: Because of His obedience and humility, God has given to Jesus a name that is above every name, and everyone in heaven and on earth will bow and acknowledge that He is Lord.
And in that second chapter of Philippians, Paul tells us that we need to have the same humility, the same love, the same compassion, and the same obedience as Jesus as we relate to each other in the family of God and as we reach out to the world around us to tell them about His love.
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus!
Alan Riley is Vice President for Ministry and Media Development for 316 Networks (www.316Networks.com), Streaming Faith's sister media property. From 2006-2009 he served as Director of Web Operations and Managing Editor for Streaming Faith. An ordained Baptist Minister, Alan is a frequent contributor to the Streaming Faith Daily Devotional. He can sometimes be found blogging at www.alansblog.com or more often opining in 140 characters or less at www.Twitter.com/AlanRiley.
© Alan Riley all rights reserved.
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