I came into this world because it was God-ordained. “My substance was not hid from thee when I was made in secret. . . .Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect” (Psalm 139:15, 16). Indeed, I was born a sinner. Not only do I have a natural propensity to think, talk, feel and act a certain way, but I have chosen to respond to traumatic experiences typically in a way that is sinful. How I responded to the trauma in the past may have been a way of coping, but so much in life is affected by my responses. And, too often God is seen through eyes that lack spiritual clarity, so His character and purposes are misunderstood. I must, therefore, be intentional about changing the lens. I must remember that “the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned” (1 Corinthians 2:14).
The Bible contains the truth that I need on the journey of life. I have found that whenever I turn away from its principles, I make unwise decisions. I follow the way that seems right, but it is the path of destruction. I can, however, choose the right way, and let the Lord direct my steps.
But, do I really have the right mindset?
Let me give some thought to what kind of mindset I have as I endeavor to grow spiritually, “[laying] aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset [me]” (Hebrews 12:1).
Let me ask the Lord to “search me . . . and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts” (Psalm 139:23).
Mindset Opposing Spiritual Growth
It was good for my mother, my grandmother, and great-grandmother, so it is good enough for me. Or, if it is something my family has embraced, I don’t want anything to do with it.
The majority of Christendom believe it, so it must be true; or, if it’s about Jesus, I want nothing to do with it.
I am used to doing or believing a certain way, and it’s hard to change.
I know what the Bible says, but I don’t feel like I am doing something wrong.
If my pastor says it or does it, it must be true.
I was born this way, and I will die this way.
I am so messed up that not even Jesus can help me.
Mindset Favoring Spiritual Growth
I want to know what is true.
I am constantly inquiring about what the Bible or Jesus says.
I want to know what Jesus would do, or what He actually did in order to imitate Him.
When I find it difficult to do what is right, I am honest with God regarding my lack, and I ask Him to make me willing to do what is pleasing to Him.
I choose to bury all excuses.
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