Renewing Your Mind: The Dynamics of Christian Trasformation
Dr.Rick Wallace addresses the power of our thought processes to influence change in our lives. A must read.
Dr.Rick Wallace addresses the power of our thought processes to influence change in our lives. A must read.
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<strong>Renewing</strong> <strong>Your</strong> <strong>Mind</strong>:<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Dynamics</strong> <strong>of</strong> Transformation<br />
By<br />
Dr. Rick Wallace<br />
Published by Odyssey Media Group-Dr. Rick Wallace<br />
Copyright 2012 Dr. Rick Wallace<br />
This eBook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only.<br />
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author.
Table <strong>of</strong> Contents<br />
Introduction<br />
You Are What You Think<br />
<strong>The</strong> Correlation between <strong>Mind</strong> & Body<br />
<strong>The</strong> Source <strong>of</strong> Human View Point<br />
<strong>The</strong> Source <strong>of</strong> Divine View Point<br />
<strong>The</strong> Bible, A Critic <strong>of</strong> the Thoughts<br />
Areas <strong>of</strong> mental Attitude<br />
Wordliness<br />
Inner Happiness<br />
Peace <strong>of</strong> Confidence<br />
Stability<br />
Giving<br />
Love<br />
2 Corinthians : <strong>The</strong> Mental Attitude Dissertation<br />
Our Spiritual Weapons<br />
<strong>The</strong> Mental Attitude in Conflict<br />
Summation<br />
<strong>Renewing</strong> <strong>Your</strong> <strong>Mind</strong>:
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Dynamics</strong> <strong>of</strong> Transformation<br />
Introduction<br />
As I observe the plight <strong>of</strong> the modern day <strong>Christian</strong> I see believers that are consumed by the<br />
darkness around them. I see pr<strong>of</strong>essed <strong>Christian</strong>s that have bought into the secular world views<br />
that dominate our society. As followers <strong>of</strong> Christ we have been given some powerful and<br />
infallible assets to walk this life; however when our thinking is conformed to the thought<br />
processes <strong>of</strong> those in the world, we lose our power. <strong>The</strong>re are so many believers that are walking<br />
around defeated and overwhelmed by their circumstances. <strong>The</strong>re are too many believers that are<br />
being tossed by every wind <strong>of</strong> doctrine. Instead <strong>of</strong> being guided and sustained by the Word <strong>of</strong><br />
God, we have become a people driven by emotions.<br />
Too <strong>of</strong>ten, I meet <strong>Christian</strong>s that are just waiting for the next great motivating sermon, only to<br />
have their emotions wane over the next several days. Once the emotion has waned, the believer<br />
is back to square one in attempting to deal with all that is going on in their lives. So somewhere<br />
around Tuesday or Wednesday they began to yearn for the next motivational explosion from<br />
their Pastor. Don’t get me wrong, you should be yearning the teaching <strong>of</strong> the Word. <strong>The</strong> problem<br />
is not yearning for the next sermon. <strong>The</strong> problem is that in some way this believer is not<br />
absorbing or inculcating what is being taught by the pastor, they have gotten caught up in the<br />
emotion <strong>of</strong> it all. It is not the emotion that sustains; it is the Word <strong>of</strong> God; its promises, its<br />
guidance, its revelation <strong>of</strong> <strong>Christian</strong> identity and assets.<br />
Romans 12: 2 is one <strong>of</strong> the most <strong>of</strong>t quoted scriptures in the Bible, yet it is one <strong>of</strong> the most<br />
misunderstood and rarely executed <strong>of</strong> all scriptures. It is my objective in this short book to unveil<br />
the true meaning and power that is revealed in this scripture, to open up the source <strong>of</strong> true<br />
transformation and elevation within the <strong>Christian</strong> life.<br />
I will be drawing from a number <strong>of</strong> scriptural passages to set the ground work for this revelation<br />
to be unveiled. My ultimate goal will be to get you to understand that “you are what you think”.<br />
Although you are judged by your overt behavior, your behavior is determined by your thought<br />
processes.<br />
So many people wonder why they continue to find themselves in the same situations over and<br />
over again. <strong>The</strong> answer is simple, whether it is financial ruin, relational issues, emotional issues,<br />
or psychological struggles, the answer is in the way you think. If you want to change your<br />
perpetual situations, change the way you think perpetually.
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Christian</strong> life is meant to be lived in victory not defeat, but it requires the believer to take on<br />
“<strong>The</strong> <strong>Mind</strong> <strong>of</strong> Christ” (1 Cor. 2:16). <strong>The</strong>re is a <strong>Christian</strong> way <strong>of</strong> thinking that is revealed in<br />
scripture and sustained by scripture through the power <strong>of</strong> the Holy Spirit. We will visit this in<br />
some detail with the objective <strong>of</strong> transformation.<br />
Every <strong>Christian</strong> has before them the power to live in victory, but without the renewal <strong>of</strong> the<br />
mind, this will become lost potential.<br />
You Are What You Think<br />
Through God’s omniscience He has always known everything we will ever do or think (Heb.<br />
4:13), yet He allows us the volitional freedom (freedom <strong>of</strong> choice) to make our own decisions.<br />
Although we are given the right to exercise our volition freely, we are held responsible for every<br />
decision, including the things that we allow ourselves to think. Scripture has revealed quite<br />
clearly that our thinking carries great implication, so it is important to grasp the fact that our<br />
thinking is all-important.<br />
7 For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. (Prov. 23:7, AMP)<br />
Although you are judged by your overt behavior, you are what you think. <strong>Your</strong> mental attitude;<br />
your thought processes directly influence every aspect <strong>of</strong> your behavior. Understanding this goes<br />
a long way in bringing about the necessary transformation.<br />
When the Bible refers to thought there are two primary influences by which thoughts are<br />
produced. For the sake <strong>of</strong> clarity, we will call these two primary conduits the left lobe and the<br />
right lobe <strong>of</strong> the soul. <strong>The</strong> Bible always relates our thought patterns to the right lobe <strong>of</strong> the soul,<br />
which in the Greek is designated “kardia” in the English “heart” and Hebrew “leb”. This is in<br />
contrast to the left or perceptive lobe <strong>of</strong> the soul, which in the Greek is designated “nous”, and in<br />
the English “mind”. <strong>The</strong> mind is the staging area <strong>of</strong> the soul. Quick warning; do not get the<br />
“mind and the “brain” confused. <strong>The</strong> mind is an immaterial aspect <strong>of</strong> the soul while the brain is a<br />
material biological organism.<br />
For the sake <strong>of</strong> definition: <strong>The</strong> “soul” is that rational, immaterial aspect <strong>of</strong> mankind<br />
composed <strong>of</strong> self-consciousness, mentality, volition and conscience. For a more detailed<br />
explanation <strong>of</strong> the soul you may request a copy <strong>of</strong> “<strong>The</strong> Study <strong>of</strong> the Soul”, which is an in<br />
depth study <strong>of</strong> the human soul.
When doctrinal knowledge is received through the left lobe (the mind) it is called “gnosis” in the<br />
Greek and “knowledge in the English, and knowledge that is transferred to the right lobe<br />
“kardia” or “heart” is called “epignosis” in the Greek or “full knowledge” in the English.<br />
Though what you are reading now may seem somewhat technical and uninteresting, it lays the<br />
foundation for understanding God’s great design for advancing you in spiritual maturity, while<br />
equipping you to fully execute the <strong>Christian</strong> way <strong>of</strong> life.<br />
Knowledge that enters the left lobe is simply academic knowledge, information that has been<br />
learned, but when this knowledge is transferred to the right lobe (heart) through faith (believing<br />
that it is true), by the revelatory power <strong>of</strong> the Holy Spirit it becomes full knowledge and is ready<br />
to be applied to the <strong>Christian</strong> way <strong>of</strong> life.<br />
<strong>The</strong>re are several categories through which this full knowledge will be funneled and stored for<br />
proper and appropriate application: Frame <strong>of</strong> Reference, Memory Center, Vocabulary Storage,<br />
Categorical Storage, Conscience, Momentum, and Wisdom. Each <strong>of</strong> these categories play a<br />
major role in the application <strong>of</strong> acquired knowledge to the real issues <strong>of</strong> life. This is where the<br />
majority <strong>of</strong> believers run into trouble. Emotional compulsion doesn’t solve the issues <strong>of</strong> life,<br />
Bible doctrine does. It is “<strong>The</strong> <strong>Mind</strong> <strong>of</strong> Christ”; the same thinking <strong>of</strong> divine viewpoint that<br />
sustained Christ through His earthly ministry that will bring you through as you face the<br />
vicissitudes <strong>of</strong> life. It is not emotionally charged antics or the empty quotation <strong>of</strong> motivational<br />
phrases that will stabilize and empower you, but the application <strong>of</strong> Bible doctrine that has been<br />
absorbed, digested, metabolized and inculcated daily that will provide the stability and<br />
confidence necessary to withstand life’s vicissitudes.<br />
When knowledge is transferred from the left lobe (mind) to the right lobe (heart), it becomes<br />
“full knowledge” and is now ready to be applied to the issues <strong>of</strong> life which constitutes wisdom.<br />
“Doctrine first enters your frame <strong>of</strong> reference and memory center, the initial staging areas for<br />
retaining and storing information. From there it flows into the vocabulary storage compartment<br />
for developing the ability to think divine viewpoint.<br />
Divine viewpoint is the thinking, value system, and problem solving ability gleaned from Bible<br />
doctrine, an orientation to life based <strong>of</strong> God’s perspective. We you have oriented yourself to the<br />
proper mindset based on a biblical perspective it will help you avoid major mental pitfalls such<br />
as an arrogance complex, victim’s mentality, or a narcissistic complex. <strong>The</strong> proper thinking<br />
always reminds you that it’s not about you, but about God’s plan for your life.<br />
Next, doctrine flows into the categorical storage compartment where concepts are organized and<br />
accumulated. From this doctrine norms and standards are created in your conscience. Now, you<br />
can grow and develop momentum in your spiritual life and manifest wisdom; the application <strong>of</strong><br />
divine viewpoint to experience.” (R.B. Thieme Jr.)
<strong>The</strong> objective <strong>of</strong> this study will be to analyze certain passages <strong>of</strong> scripture that teach that our<br />
approach to life and the effectiveness <strong>of</strong> our <strong>Christian</strong> walk is dependent upon the way you think.<br />
Even physical attractiveness and health can be affected by your thoughts.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Correlation between the <strong>Mind</strong> and the Body<br />
Medical science is becoming increasing aware <strong>of</strong> the correlation between physical health and the<br />
human thought process. We are constantly learning that many illnesses or either a direct result <strong>of</strong><br />
psychoses <strong>of</strong> the mind, or the psychosis exacerbates the matter. This condition is called<br />
psychosomatics. <strong>The</strong> word itself is made up <strong>of</strong> two Greek words: “psuche” meaning “soul”, with<br />
emphasis being placed on the mentality, and “soma” meaning “body”.<br />
<strong>The</strong> principle or concept <strong>of</strong> psychosomatics is very simple; any fear, worry or anxiety that<br />
creates continuous mental tension will eventually manifest physically within the body. <strong>The</strong>re are<br />
numerous illnesses that are associated with psychoses. I do not mention psychosomatics for the<br />
purpose <strong>of</strong> addressing any illnesses at this point; I just want to point to the immense power <strong>of</strong> the<br />
mind. <strong>The</strong>re can be a psychological influence on physiological problems.<br />
This draws us toward the issue we must all face. When we think divine viewpoint through<br />
applied Bible doctrine that is resident in the heart (right lobe) the result is inner peace, relaxed<br />
mental attitude, stability and inner happiness. However, when we choose to think human<br />
viewpoint, we produce mental attitude sins such as pride, jealousy, bitterness, vindictiveness,<br />
implacability, and guilt complexes, which dominate the mentality <strong>of</strong> the soul and creates selfinduced<br />
misery.<br />
Human viewpoint is any human or satanic system <strong>of</strong> thinking, values, or problem solving<br />
contrary and diametrically opposed to divine viewpoint, values, and problem solving as revealed<br />
in the Bible.<br />
Let’s take a look at what scripture has to say about the two opposing viewpoints <strong>of</strong> life:<br />
7 Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return to<br />
the Lord, and He will have love, pity, and mercy for him, and to our God, for He will multiply<br />
to him His abundant pardon.<br />
8 For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, says the Lord.
9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My<br />
thoughts than your thoughts. (Isaiah 55:7-9, AMP)<br />
<strong>The</strong>re are multitudinous mental attitudes among us, but there are only two viewpoints from<br />
which they emerge; divine viewpoint and human viewpoint.<br />
While the unbeliever is only capable <strong>of</strong> human viewpoint (Eph. 4:18; Col. 1:21), the believer is<br />
capable <strong>of</strong> both, human viewpoint and divine viewpoint. It is the believer’s ability to perpetually<br />
think divine viewpoint that will allow him to live a victorious life.<br />
Although the believer is not <strong>of</strong> this world, he is definitely in it (John 15:19) and thereby exposed<br />
to the cosmic views <strong>of</strong> this world. <strong>The</strong> believer is bombarded daily with erroneous and fallacious<br />
doctrines designed by Satan to distort his perception <strong>of</strong> reality and cause him to think contrary to<br />
Divine viewpoint (Col. 2:8, 20-22). <strong>The</strong> world is pressuring the believer to be like the rest <strong>of</strong><br />
humanity, but God requires him to be transformed to His way <strong>of</strong> thinking (Rom. 12:2).<br />
We have been told over and over throughout life that our decisions have consequences. What has<br />
not been stressed enough is that our thought processes impact our decisions. If what you have<br />
stored away in your heart is human viewpoint then your decision on any issue will reflect that.<br />
However, if you have saturated you heart with the “<strong>Mind</strong> <strong>of</strong> Christ” (1 Cor. 2:16) then your<br />
decisions will reflect the will <strong>of</strong> God and produce the victorious life. Satan uses human or satanic<br />
viewpoint for one reason, to neutralize the <strong>Christian</strong> life. Without thinking divine viewpoint, the<br />
<strong>Christian</strong> becomes ineffective in his walk.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Source <strong>of</strong> Human Viewpoint<br />
<strong>The</strong>re many factors that influence our thinking; environment, parents, education, culture, history,<br />
traditions, attainments, religion and more. Though designated as such, human viewpoint did not<br />
originate in the human mind. It began with the thinking <strong>of</strong> Satan that led to his revolt against<br />
God. Satan knows that if he can infiltrate the thinking <strong>of</strong> believers with his own systems <strong>of</strong><br />
thought that He can neutralize them, and they become casualties in the angelic conflict.<br />
<strong>The</strong> first sign <strong>of</strong> human viewpoint concerning the human race is seen in the Garden when Satan<br />
cunningly convinced the Women that if she ate <strong>of</strong> the fruit <strong>of</strong> Good and Evil she would not die,<br />
but become wise (all-knowing like God).
<strong>The</strong> Satan-inspired view that man is basically good is another ingenious part <strong>of</strong> his strategy to<br />
erroneously influence the mind <strong>of</strong> man. This view that man is basically good in and <strong>of</strong> himself<br />
does not measure up to what scripture says.<br />
23<br />
for all have sinned and fall short <strong>of</strong> the glory <strong>of</strong> God (Rom. 3:23, NIV)<br />
9<br />
<strong>The</strong> heart is deceitful above all things<br />
and beyond cure.<br />
Who can understand it? (Jer. 17:9, NIV)<br />
When we begin to believe the lie <strong>of</strong> Satan that we are inherently good it cultivates arrogance. We<br />
begin to look for things within ourselves that validate our claim to righteousness. This alienates<br />
us from God and neutralizes our power to function under grace and renders us ineffective.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Source <strong>of</strong> Divine Viewpoint<br />
16<br />
For WHO HAS KNOWN THE MIND OF THE LORD, THAT HE WILL INSTRUCT HIM?<br />
But we have the mind <strong>of</strong> Christ. (1 Cor. 2:16 NASB)<br />
If you do not take anything else away from this book, please grab hold <strong>of</strong> this truth: <strong>The</strong> Bible is<br />
the Only Source <strong>of</strong> Divine viewpoint. It is the <strong>Mind</strong> <strong>of</strong> Christ (John 1:1), the living word,<br />
expressed in written form. When you have not saturated your heart with God’s Word; when you<br />
have not inculcated the very mind <strong>of</strong> Christ into your heart, how can you possibly respond to any<br />
circumstance or situation in a Christ like manner? <strong>The</strong> biblical command is to “Let this mind be<br />
in you, which was also in Christ (Phil. 2:5). What mind is this scripture speaking <strong>of</strong>? It speaks <strong>of</strong><br />
the thinking <strong>of</strong> Christ; divine viewpoint. Christ set the pattern during His earthly ministry. He<br />
used divine viewpoint in every situation.<br />
In order to gain spiritual momentum in the <strong>Christian</strong> life, positive volition must be exercised<br />
toward divine viewpoint. Bible doctrine must be believed and thereby converted into full<br />
knowledge or spiritual knowledge. As you are beginning to see, your thinking is <strong>of</strong> immense<br />
concern.
<strong>The</strong> Victory <strong>of</strong> Divine Viewpoint<br />
This is where a lot <strong>of</strong> <strong>Christian</strong> believers will become upset with me, but in order for there to be<br />
true advancement in the <strong>Christian</strong> way; in order for there to be true stability and peace, there<br />
must be the revelation <strong>of</strong> truth. It seems to be the general consensus <strong>of</strong> believers that once a<br />
person becomes a <strong>Christian</strong> they must stop using their minds and start depending upon emotional<br />
stimuli as the indicative force in their lives. Most <strong>Christian</strong>s are looking for some emotional or<br />
ecstatic experience to validate their position in Christ and to solidify their hope.<br />
Don’t get me wrong; emotions have their proper place as responsive mechanisms <strong>of</strong> what is<br />
perceived, but they are not the perceptive mechanism in themselves. Such gross<br />
misunderstanding and misapplication <strong>of</strong> Scripture comes from the lack <strong>of</strong> Bible doctrine resident<br />
in the soul (specifically, the heart – right lobe <strong>of</strong> the soul), and from pastors and bible teachers<br />
that fail to properly teach the Word <strong>of</strong> God. It has become the acceptable norm to preach to<br />
itching ears rather than disseminating he truth.<br />
When you are encouraged to depend upon your emotions instead <strong>of</strong> your mind to validate truth<br />
and provide stability, you will find you are living a capricious and instable existence. Anyone<br />
who has studied psychology or sociology will tell you that human emotions are lacking in<br />
endurance; they are hard to maintain for long periods <strong>of</strong> time. When a person seems to be able to<br />
carry their anger for what seems to be forever, they are not really carrying anger, but some other<br />
mental attitude sin, like resentment or bitterness. <strong>The</strong> anger itself is simply designed to reveal the<br />
existence <strong>of</strong> a perceived wrong, and dissipates shortly afterward. Since emotions are not long<br />
endured, they are not suitable for use in maintaining a longevous state <strong>of</strong> being. <strong>The</strong> way that<br />
you maintain a consistent state <strong>of</strong> being is by proper thinking. <strong>The</strong> way that you maintain proper<br />
thinking is by taking on the mind <strong>of</strong> Christ.<br />
When you choose to depend on emotional indicators to gauge your position in relation to your<br />
circumstances rather than using your heart and mind to take on the thinking <strong>of</strong> Christ you will<br />
always be riding the rollercoaster <strong>of</strong> instability. Those who lack adequate bible doctrine in the<br />
soul to properly influence there thinking and guard their souls from spiritual assault tend to use<br />
substitute systems <strong>of</strong> survival and false advancement. Systems such as the power <strong>of</strong> positive<br />
thinking, self-hypnosis (This system is a distorted and diluted doctrine based on [faith rest];<br />
which is the dependence on the promises <strong>of</strong> God which allows the soul to be stabilized long<br />
enough to draw on the bible doctrine necessary to provide a resolution), for the <strong>Christian</strong> way <strong>of</strong><br />
life. <strong>The</strong> true <strong>Christian</strong> way <strong>of</strong> life is thinking Bible doctrine; taking on the mind <strong>of</strong> Christ.<br />
16 For who has known or understood the mind (the counsels and purposes) <strong>of</strong> the Lord so as to<br />
guide and instruct Him and give Him knowledge? But we have the mind <strong>of</strong> Christ (the<br />
Messiah) and do hold the thoughts (feelings and purposes) <strong>of</strong> His heart. (1 Cor. 2:16, AMP)
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Christian</strong> lifestyle requires toughness, but toughness does not come from emotion nor does it<br />
reside in sublimations. Toughness is a mental state <strong>of</strong> mind that has been established on<br />
something that cannot be shaken and does not waver in the face <strong>of</strong> adversity and delay. For the<br />
<strong>Christian</strong> believer this mental attitude is a reflection <strong>of</strong> his faith. A faith that is founded in the<br />
Word <strong>of</strong> God and built as the Word <strong>of</strong> God is systematically inculcated into the heart. To be able<br />
to view life through divine viewpoint is one <strong>of</strong> the greatest stabilizing forces that we have at our<br />
disposal. Where emotion, sublimation, and false advancement come miserably short, thinking<br />
divine viewpoint provides unshakable stability.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Bible, a Critic <strong>of</strong> the Thoughts<br />
12<br />
For the word <strong>of</strong> God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and<br />
piercing as far as the division <strong>of</strong> soul and spirit, <strong>of</strong> both joints and marrow, and able to judge<br />
the thoughts and intentions <strong>of</strong> the heart. (Heb. 4:12, NIV)<br />
We have come to measure ourselves and our thinking, for that matter, by so many external yard<br />
sticks, but the only accurate discerner <strong>of</strong> what we think is also the only source that can be used to<br />
straighten out our erroneous thinking, and that is the word <strong>of</strong> God.<br />
23<br />
Search me, God, and know my heart;<br />
test me and know my anxious thoughts.<br />
24<br />
See if there is any <strong>of</strong>fensive way in me… (Ps. 139:23-24, NIV)<br />
You must learn to train yourself to measure your thinking through the Word <strong>of</strong> God. When your<br />
thought processes are placed juxtaposed with scripture do they line up or are they diametrically<br />
opposed? When your thinking lines up with bible doctrine you will have the power, stability,<br />
inner-peace, strength, and inner-happiness (also known as joy, the happiness that is not<br />
transitory) to face every situation in your life with confidence.<br />
Areas <strong>of</strong> Mental Attitude<br />
<strong>The</strong>re are number <strong>of</strong> different <strong>of</strong> areas <strong>of</strong> mental attitude through which the effectiveness <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Christian</strong> living can be impacted.<br />
Worldliness
Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external,<br />
superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal <strong>of</strong> your mind [by its<br />
new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and<br />
acceptable and perfect will <strong>of</strong> God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in<br />
His sight for you]. (Rom. 12:2, AMP)<br />
This verse constitutes a direct command” “Do not be conformed to this world, but be<br />
transformed.” In simple, the command is to not be worldly; however, in order to properly apply<br />
this text you have to have a lucid understanding <strong>of</strong> the term “worldly’ and its application.<br />
Contrary to the common application, worldliness is not what you do it is what you think.<br />
Worldliness is a mental attitude; it is thinking in any way that is antithetical to the teachings <strong>of</strong><br />
the Bible. Worldliness is the thinking <strong>of</strong> human or world view point.<br />
<strong>The</strong>re are many world views in the world; for too many to mention, but I will list a few to give<br />
you an idea <strong>of</strong> what the believer is up against on a daily basis.<br />
Atheism – A denial <strong>of</strong> the existence <strong>of</strong> a supernatural God.<br />
Darwinism – <strong>The</strong> theory proposed by Charles Darwin that species gradually evolve into new<br />
species over time due to natural selection. You can also include Evolution and Neo Darwinism is<br />
this category.<br />
Determinism – <strong>The</strong> belief that events, actions, or decisions are inevitable consequences <strong>of</strong><br />
proceeding events or national laws, deny freedom <strong>of</strong> the human will.<br />
Naturalism – <strong>The</strong> belief that all reality is fundamentally material and all phenomena can be<br />
explained in terms <strong>of</strong> natural causes.<br />
Ethical Relativism – <strong>The</strong> belief that no absolute moral code exists and therefore man determines<br />
what is right in each situation according to his private judgment.<br />
Nihilism – <strong>The</strong> belief that life has no ultimate meaning.<br />
Religious Pluralism – <strong>The</strong> conviction that one should be tolerant <strong>of</strong> all religious beliefs because<br />
no one religion is true.
Secular Humanism – A world view based on atheism and naturalism in which “man is the<br />
measure” <strong>of</strong> all things; man, not God, is the ultimate norm by which truth and morality are to be<br />
determined.<br />
<strong>The</strong>re are quite a few more; some are a combination <strong>of</strong> two or more <strong>of</strong> the ones you see above.<br />
When we examine this we can see how they are diametrically opposed to divine viewpoint, but<br />
we can also see some <strong>of</strong> the tenets <strong>of</strong> these worldviews being taught in certain sects <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Church. <strong>The</strong> enemy has laboriously pressed to infiltrate the thinking <strong>of</strong> believers with world<br />
views that distract and misdirect the believer from the thinking <strong>of</strong> divine viewpoint and thereby<br />
rendering the believer ineffective.<br />
When we are commanded not to be conformed to human viewpoint, it means that we must take<br />
on a new mental attitude. <strong>The</strong> problem is that there a multitudinous <strong>Christian</strong>s that are very<br />
worldly, yet they are totally unaware <strong>of</strong> this fact because they do not have an accurate<br />
understanding <strong>of</strong> Romans 12:2. When they think <strong>of</strong> worldliness they think <strong>of</strong> overt behavior.<br />
<strong>The</strong>y look at the practice <strong>of</strong> religious ritual and sacramental rites to gauge their spirituality. <strong>The</strong>y<br />
look for works <strong>of</strong> human good to validate their spiritual growth. <strong>The</strong> problem is that it is not the<br />
act that constitutes worldliness, but the mental attitude that motivates it.<br />
“Be transformed” (Greek “metamorphoo”; present passive imperative) is a continuous process<br />
involving Bible study and the actualization <strong>of</strong> spiritual potential which builds momentum toward<br />
living the <strong>Christian</strong> life. Bible doctrine must be present in the right lobe <strong>of</strong> the soul (the heart), in<br />
order to facilitate this change or transformation. “Be transformed” literally means to change your<br />
thinking or your thought processes. Saturating the heart with Bible doctrine is the defense<br />
mechanism against thinking human viewpoint and perpetuating a worldly life.<br />
1<br />
<strong>The</strong>refore if you have been (A) raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where<br />
Christ is, (B) seated at the right hand <strong>of</strong> God. 2 [a](C) Set your mind on the things above, not on the<br />
things that are on earth… 10 and have (Q) put on the new self who is being [i](R) renewed to a true<br />
knowledge (S) according to the image <strong>of</strong> the One who (T) created him— (Col. 3:1-2, 10, NASB)<br />
<strong>The</strong> “things above” are literally the “upward things” which constitutes the sum total <strong>of</strong> divine<br />
viewpoint. <strong>The</strong> command is to continue to seek to think and commit to thinking divine<br />
viewpoint. “Set your mind on” is literally, “keep thinking about the upward things”. “Things that<br />
are on earth” is the sum total <strong>of</strong> human or world viewpoint. This verse gives emphasis to the<br />
believer’s continual mental attitude struggling through human and divine viewpoint.<br />
Inner Happiness
2(C) make my joy complete [b] by (D) being <strong>of</strong> the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in<br />
spirit, intent on one purpose. (Phil. 2:2, NASB)<br />
<strong>The</strong> believer is positionally perfected at the point <strong>of</strong> salvation. This means that he is placed in<br />
Christ and his positioning in Christ provides positional justification and sanctification; however,<br />
the believer’s soul still has a deficiency; it is empty and must be filled. God’s plan <strong>of</strong> grace<br />
provides the means for this void to be filled through the saturation <strong>of</strong> Bible doctrine. This is the<br />
meaning <strong>of</strong> “make” πληρόω, plēroō<br />
play-ro'-o<br />
From G4134; to make replete, that is, (literally) to cram (a net), level up (a hollow), or<br />
(figuratively) to furnish (or imbue, diffuse, influence), satisfy, execute (an <strong>of</strong>fice), finish (a period<br />
or task), verify (or coincide with a prediction), etc.: - accomplish, X after, (be) complete, end,<br />
expire, fill (up), fulfil, (be, make) full (come), fully preach, perfect, supply.<br />
Strong's Hebrew and Greek Dictionaries G4137<br />
As Bible doctrine fully occupies, possesses and influences the believers thinking, God fills the<br />
believer’s soul with His own happiness. “Joy” χαρά, chara<br />
khar-ah'<br />
From G5463; cheerfulness, that is, calm delight: - gladness, X greatly, (X be exceeding) joy (-<br />
ful, -fully, -fullness, -ous).<br />
Strong's Hebrew and Greek Dictionaries G5479<br />
“Chara” in the Greek refers to inner-happiness. Not situational or transitory elation, but a<br />
happiness that is stabilized and solidified by the truth obtained from Bible doctrine. When you<br />
add the possessive pronoun “my” joy then refers to perfect happiness or God’s happiness. This<br />
sharing <strong>of</strong> God’s happiness exists initially as potential; whether this potential is actualized<br />
depends on whether the believer functions under the principles <strong>of</strong> grace and builds an edifice <strong>of</strong><br />
spiritual strength, joy, love, humility, all <strong>of</strong> which is built upon doctrinal integrity and<br />
accomplished through the filling <strong>of</strong> the Holy Spirit.<br />
Peace or Confidence<br />
3<br />
You will guard him and keep him in perfect and constant peace whose mind [both its<br />
inclination and its character] is stayed on You, because he commits himself to You, leans on<br />
You, and hopes confidently in You. (Isa. 26:3, AMP)<br />
Having your mind “fixed” or “occupied” with Christ is the foundation and basis for perfect<br />
peace. Knowing Christ requires knowing the Word; remember, He is the Word manifested in the
flesh. Paul explained that this peace that God provides “guards” or “garrisons” the hearts [right<br />
lobe <strong>of</strong> the soul] and minds [left lobe <strong>of</strong> the soul] through Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:7).<br />
<strong>The</strong> word “peace” εἰρήνη, eirēnē<br />
i-rah'-nay<br />
Probably from a primary verb εἴρω eirō (to join); peace (literally or figuratively); by implication<br />
prosperity: - one, peace, quietness, rest, + set at one again.<br />
Strong's Hebrew and Greek Dictionaries G1515<br />
This peace reflects the transfer <strong>of</strong> gnosis (academic knowledge stored in the left lobe) to<br />
epignosis (full knowledge stored in the right lobe <strong>of</strong> the soul). When the believer continuously<br />
builds his faith store, doctrine upon doctrine, line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little,<br />
there a little (Isa. 28:13) he is able to face all kinds <strong>of</strong> adversity and difficult circumstances with<br />
confidence and stability <strong>of</strong> the soul.<br />
For those believers that do not have stability under pressure, there is something wrong with their<br />
mental attitude (Prov. 24:10).<br />
Stability<br />
For God hath not given us a spirit <strong>of</strong> fear; but <strong>of</strong> power and love, and <strong>of</strong> a sound [stabilized]<br />
mind (2 Tim. 1:7, emphasis mine)<br />
<strong>The</strong> stabilized mind is a direct result <strong>of</strong> thinking divine viewpoint which produces tranquility in<br />
life and allows the believer to be free from worry, fear or mental stability. “Fear” is human<br />
viewpoint that is caused by the inability to rest on the promises <strong>of</strong> God and trust in His<br />
faithfulness. Paul encouraged the <strong>The</strong>ssalonians to take on this same inexorable mindset when<br />
facing adversity.<br />
2 Not to allow your minds to be quickly unsettled or disturbed or kept excited or alarmed, (2<br />
<strong>The</strong>ss. 2:2a, AMP)<br />
Stability is judged by overt action, observing the response <strong>of</strong> someone in the midst <strong>of</strong> adversity;<br />
however, at the core <strong>of</strong> every decision to remain calm and unshaken is the mental attitude which<br />
produces the stability to do so. <strong>Your</strong> circumstances are not stabilized by what you do; they are<br />
stabilized by what you think. In order to function optimally under pressure a person must have a<br />
stabilized mental attitude.
Giving<br />
Many believers never apprehend the principle <strong>of</strong> proper mental attitude in giving. Most, through<br />
improper, inadequate, or inaccurate teaching, focus on the act <strong>of</strong> giving, and lose sight <strong>of</strong> the<br />
importance <strong>of</strong> having the proper mental attitude toward giving.<br />
12<br />
For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according<br />
to what one does not have. (2 Cor. 8:12, NIV)<br />
7 Each <strong>of</strong> you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under<br />
compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. (2 Cor. 9:7, NIV)<br />
True biblical giving is a mental attitude first and foremost. Giving should not be done from<br />
compulsion, but from what the heart purposes. <strong>The</strong> heart is always going to be the determining<br />
factor. What you fill your heart with is what will come to the surface when you are squeezed by<br />
the pressures <strong>of</strong> life.<br />
Love<br />
5<br />
Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.<br />
(Deut. 6:5, NIV)<br />
5 [Love, ἀγάπη, agape] It is not conceited (arrogant and inflated with pride); it is not rude<br />
(unmannerly) and does not act unbecomingly. Love (God's love in us) does not insist on its own<br />
rights or its own way, for it is not self-seeking; it is not touchy or fretful or resentful; it takes no<br />
account <strong>of</strong> the evil done to it [it pays no attention to a suffered wrong]. (1 Cor. 13:5, AMP)<br />
“<strong>The</strong> Greek word agape confirms the principle that the true concept <strong>of</strong> love in the Bible is a<br />
mental attitude. Agape, which comes from the filling <strong>of</strong> the Holy Spirit and epignosis knowledge<br />
<strong>of</strong> doctrine, is found only in the mentality <strong>of</strong> the soul and is the capacity to love god and people.<br />
Agape is the relaxed mental attitude …Agape is the divine viewpoint that will prompt overt<br />
manifestations <strong>of</strong> either personal or impersonal love (1Cor. 13:4-8a; 1 John 4:11, 19).” R.B.<br />
Thieme Jr.<br />
2 Corinthians 10
<strong>The</strong> Mental Attitude Dissertation<br />
One <strong>of</strong> the most power mental attitude passages in the Bible is found in 2 Corinthians 10. This<br />
passage reveals the correlation between the spiritual conflicts we encounter to our thought<br />
pattern<br />
1 Now (A) I, Paul, myself (B) urge you by the (C) meekness and gentleness <strong>of</strong> Christ—I<br />
who (D) am [a] meek when face to face with you, but bold toward you when absent! (2<br />
Corinthians 10:1, NASB)<br />
<strong>The</strong> word “meekness” literally means “gentleness <strong>of</strong> mind” and is a word for mental attitude <strong>of</strong><br />
grace. “Gentleness” is literally “graciousness” or the application <strong>of</strong> grace. Paul, from the<br />
beginning <strong>of</strong> this passage, sites the exceptional grace orientation <strong>of</strong> Jesus Christ. Christ<br />
exemplified proper orientation to the grace plan <strong>of</strong> God.<br />
To fully understand this passage, you have to have a small bit <strong>of</strong> background information. I will<br />
give you enough to set the stage, and the rest I will reveal as we move forward.<br />
Paul in this passage is first all responding to his critics who have accused him <strong>of</strong> abusing his<br />
apostolic authority. <strong>The</strong>y have accused him <strong>of</strong> using his letters to terrorize the Corinthian<br />
believers. Paul’s response is not what most would think would be a <strong>Christian</strong> response, but he<br />
responds well within the rights <strong>of</strong> his apostolic authority.<br />
<strong>The</strong> attacks from the Corinthians against Paul originated from a critical mental attitude fostered<br />
by Satan to disrupt Paul’s mental attitude <strong>of</strong> grace orientation. It was an attempt to shake the<br />
stability <strong>of</strong> Paul by corrupting his thought processes.<br />
Paul does not turn the other cheek here because he recognizes the machinations <strong>of</strong> the enemy and<br />
understands that this is an opportunity to teach through life experience and proper correction.<br />
<strong>The</strong> easy thing to do would be for Paul to turn and walk away, which would be a dereliction <strong>of</strong><br />
his responsibility as an apostle. So Paul addresses the issue at its source; failure to think Bible<br />
doctrine. <strong>The</strong> Corinthian believers had fell victim to satanic thought or human viewpoint.<br />
<strong>The</strong> last phrase in verse one is <strong>of</strong>ten misunderstood. Paul not only addresses his critics, but he<br />
does so sarcastically by quoting their assaultive words towards him. Paul’s caustic remarks point<br />
to the fact that his critics accuse him <strong>of</strong> being bold through his letters when he is absent, but<br />
obsequious and timid when present with them. This is a reference to the first epistle (1<br />
Corinthians) in which Paul spent a great deal <strong>of</strong> time admonishing the Corinthian believers about<br />
their immature behavior and carnality.
2 I entreat you when I do come [to you] that I may not [be driven to such] boldness as I intend<br />
to show toward those few who suspect us <strong>of</strong> acting according to the flesh [on the low level <strong>of</strong><br />
worldly motives and as if invested with only human powers]. (2 Cor. 10:2, AMP)<br />
Paul is literally begging his critics to take on the proper mental attitude. He is telling them to<br />
submit to the proper orientation to grace and to resist the thinking <strong>of</strong> the world. He is telling<br />
them that the bickering and the verbal assaults need to stop. Paul consistently taught Bible<br />
doctrine as the proper medium <strong>of</strong> influencing the thought processes. <strong>The</strong> greatest expression <strong>of</strong> a<br />
pastor’s love for his flock is the constant and accurate dissemination <strong>of</strong> Bible doctrine.<br />
For though we walk in the flesh [human body], we do not war [in the angelic conflict; spiritual<br />
warfare] after [according to] the flesh [sin nature]. (2 Cor. 10:3)<br />
Paul was a genius and was exceptional in his ability to express his points in his writings; whether<br />
it be his elliptical style, the use <strong>of</strong> “a fortiori” logic, or his exceptional play on words to paint<br />
vivid portraits. In verse 3 Paul uses a play on words by using the word “flesh’ both in its literal<br />
and spiritual connotations. Paul is walking in a physical body [flesh], but he does engage the<br />
enemy or teach according the reasonings <strong>of</strong> the “flesh” [world]. We cannot fight this spiritual<br />
war using worldly methods.<br />
Our Spiritual Weapons<br />
4 For the weapons <strong>of</strong> our warfare are not physical [weapons <strong>of</strong> flesh and blood], but they are<br />
mighty before God for the overthrow and destruction <strong>of</strong> strongholds, (2 Cor. 10:4, AMP)<br />
<strong>The</strong> believer with Bible doctrine saturated in the right lobe <strong>of</strong> the soul has the resources available<br />
to fight <strong>of</strong>f the attacks <strong>of</strong> Satan through spiritual means. He has the ability to break down the<br />
fortresses <strong>of</strong> world and satanic viewpoint that surrounds them.<br />
<strong>The</strong> believer does not become frenetic and unglued at the sign <strong>of</strong> adversity; he does not become<br />
overwhelmed by anxiety when the vicissitudes <strong>of</strong> life roll in. <strong>The</strong> believer who has filled his<br />
heart with the Word <strong>of</strong> God understands that “all things are working together for his good”<br />
(Rom. 8:28). This believer casts all his cares upon the Lord) 1 Pet. 5:7).<br />
When you have a heart that is filled with the Word <strong>of</strong> God you are able to do as Christ did at the<br />
beginning <strong>of</strong> His ministry when Satan tempted Him. You will be able to confront Satanic thought<br />
with Biblical thought and emerge victoriously.
<strong>The</strong> Mental Attitude in Conflict<br />
5<br />
[Inasmuch as we] refute arguments and theories and reasonings and every proud and l<strong>of</strong>ty<br />
thing that sets itself up against {in opposition to} the [true] knowledge <strong>of</strong> God; and we lead<br />
every thought and purpose away captive into the obedience <strong>of</strong> Christ (the Messiah, the<br />
Anointed One), (2 Cor. 10:5, AMP)<br />
“Bringing every thought captive” has been interpreted in so many ways, by so many that are<br />
confused to its true meaning. Whether it is the meditators, the agonizers, or the positive thinkers,<br />
they all interpret this as meaning that they are bringing their thoughts into obedience for Christ.<br />
Yes, it is important that our minds and thinking are in agreement with Christ; however, there is<br />
another part <strong>of</strong> this warfare that is extremely important in order to be victorious in this <strong>Christian</strong><br />
life.<br />
When this verse is properly analyzed in the Greek, we can clearly see that Paul, as he <strong>of</strong>ten does<br />
is using military vernacular to lucidly express goals and directives. “Casting down” refers to a<br />
military action (kathaireo) indicates the power <strong>of</strong> a thought to demolish the treachery <strong>of</strong> Satan. It<br />
reveals that we have the power in our thinking to manifest power to overcome every obstacle.<br />
Make no mistake about it, we are in the midst <strong>of</strong> battle that will be fought to the death (the<br />
angelic conflict) [<strong>The</strong> Angelic conflict is the invisible warfare between the forces <strong>of</strong> Satan and<br />
the forces <strong>of</strong> God. Satan recruited one-third <strong>of</strong> the angels and ignited this prehistoric revolt, and<br />
subsequently they were tried and condemned to the lake <strong>of</strong> fire (Matt. 25.41). Satan appealed the<br />
judgment and in grace, God created the human race to resolve this ancient conflict which<br />
continues as spiritual warfare in human history. (R. B. Thieme Jr., Satan and Demonism)].<br />
Satan has waged a war against humanity as a last ditch effort to delay his inevitable end. He uses<br />
non-believers and carnal believers to perpetuate his evil machinations. He understands that if he<br />
can infiltrate the thinking <strong>of</strong> believers he can effectively neutralize them; making their lives<br />
ineffective.<br />
One <strong>of</strong> the most effective world views that have infiltrated the thinking <strong>of</strong> many <strong>Christian</strong>s is the<br />
belief that their humanity has doomed them to a life <strong>of</strong> failure. In fact, humanity has almost<br />
become synonymous with failure and mediocrity. It is not humanity that we are associated with<br />
as believers; it is the unity in faith and the fact that we are a part <strong>of</strong> the Royal Family <strong>of</strong> God. We<br />
are not to associate ourselves with our humanity in the sense <strong>of</strong> its weakness and fallibility, but<br />
with our position in Christ.
17 <strong>The</strong>refore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new<br />
creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away.<br />
Behold, the fresh and new has come! (2 Cor. 5:17, AMP)<br />
We have passed from the old; we are a new spiritual creation with multifarious assets at our<br />
disposal. In understanding this we must set aside the excuse <strong>of</strong> humanity and take on the<br />
newness <strong>of</strong> our spiritual existence. <strong>The</strong>re is an acronym applied to the word “human” that sheds<br />
light on this.<br />
H – Highly<br />
U – Unproductive<br />
M – Manipulated<br />
A – And<br />
N – Neutralized<br />
Satan has neutralized a large number <strong>of</strong> believers through the infiltration <strong>of</strong> satanic thought. We<br />
must change our thinking in order to transform or existence and thereby elevate our position.<br />
Another Satan inspired worldview is the belief that man is inherently good. When we as<br />
believers began to think that we are good on our own, we become arrogant and discount the need<br />
for a savior. <strong>The</strong> worldview that men are naturally good does not jibe with scripture.<br />
23 for all have sinned and fall short <strong>of</strong> the glory <strong>of</strong> God, (Rom. 3:23, NIV)<br />
9<br />
<strong>The</strong> heart is deceitful above all things<br />
and beyond cure.<br />
Who can understand it? (Jer. 17:9, NIV)<br />
God declares you to be a sinner. This means that you cannot be inherently good. Any good that<br />
man can do is human good, measured in relation to others not the standard <strong>of</strong> God. It is only<br />
through the grace <strong>of</strong> God revealed through the magnanimous gift <strong>of</strong> Jesus Christ at Calvary that<br />
we are declared good and enabled to execute true righteousness.<br />
8<br />
For (U) by grace you have been saved (V) through faith; and [h] that not <strong>of</strong> yourselves,it is (W) the<br />
gift <strong>of</strong> God; 9 (X) not as a result <strong>of</strong> works, so that (Y) no one may boast. (Eph. 2:8-9, NASB)<br />
We must continue to think what God has given us or we will be defeated.
5<br />
[Inasmuch as we] refute arguments and theories and reasonings and every proud and l<strong>of</strong>ty<br />
thing that sets itself up against the [true] knowledge <strong>of</strong> God; and we lead every thought and<br />
purpose away captive into the obedience <strong>of</strong> Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One), (verse 5)<br />
Let’s take a look at this verse once again. Remember we are dealing with military terminology.<br />
Through an intensified attack Satan has begun to attack believers through an elevated assault on<br />
the knowledge (Word) <strong>of</strong> God.<br />
Believers are troops in this spiritual warfare; when we fail to execute the plan <strong>of</strong> God in the<br />
battle it is because <strong>of</strong> negative volition toward doctrine. When we choose to think and<br />
subsequently act against the teachings <strong>of</strong> the Bible we render ourselves ineffective.<br />
When this scripture addresses Satan’s attack it uses the word “arguments” or “imaginations”, but<br />
the Greek word in use here is “logismos” which literally means “systems <strong>of</strong> thought or<br />
reasonings”, and refers to the reasoning powers <strong>of</strong> cosmic doctrine and human viewpoint<br />
1<br />
<strong>The</strong> Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving<br />
spirits and things taught by demons. (1 Tim. 4:1, NIV).<br />
Satan’s tactic is to infiltrate the minds <strong>of</strong> men, both believers and non-believers, with intent to<br />
neutralize them with cosmic doctrines, which have no true validity. <strong>The</strong>se doctrines appeal to the<br />
natural reasonings <strong>of</strong> men and therefore are received as truth.<br />
<strong>The</strong> modus operandi <strong>of</strong> Satan is described in the passage as “every high thing” (Greek, pas<br />
hupsoma), o “every obstacle <strong>of</strong> pride”. Satan attacks with obstacles <strong>of</strong> pride; the very sin that<br />
caused his fall. You may not think that your wayward thinking has anything to do with pride;<br />
however, when you reject bible doctrine in lieu <strong>of</strong> some cosmic system <strong>of</strong> thought you reveal<br />
your arrogance. Arrogance is fostered by pride. Pride says that I can do this on my own; it<br />
assumes that it can take worldly solutions to spiritual issues and work it out. Pride rises up when<br />
you are wronged and mistreated and determines that you will show them, instead <strong>of</strong> turning them<br />
over to God.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Devil uses pride to keep the believer from maintaining his spiritual equilibrium.<br />
“Every proud and l<strong>of</strong>ty thing that sets itself” (Greek, epairo) means “to elevate the assault”.<br />
Satan places his system <strong>of</strong> thought against the thinking <strong>of</strong> divine viewpoint as the best system <strong>of</strong><br />
thought. He elevates the assault through more intense mental barrages. “<strong>The</strong> knowledge (gnosis)<br />
<strong>of</strong> God; the academic understanding <strong>of</strong> doctrine is assaulted and distorted. Satan understands that<br />
if he can distort the academic knowledge <strong>of</strong> God in the left lobe, it cannot be transferred to the<br />
right lobe and become full knowledge (epignosis). When he is successful with this assault he is
able to neutralize the life <strong>of</strong> the believer. “Logismos’ is Satan’s successful attempt to eliminate<br />
the function <strong>of</strong> grace in the believer’s life <strong>of</strong> revealing and making understood biblical doctrine.<br />
Let’s take another look at this passage when the original text is rigidly applied.<br />
Resisting cosmic thought, and every obstacle <strong>of</strong> pride attacking against the academic knowledge<br />
<strong>of</strong> “the” [definite article included in the Greek] God, and making a prisoner <strong>of</strong> every human<br />
system <strong>of</strong> thought to the authority <strong>of</strong> Christ (2 Cor. 10:5; corrected translation)<br />
<strong>The</strong> authority <strong>of</strong> Christ is the Bible. Bible doctrine is the authoritative Word <strong>of</strong> God and the<br />
Revelation <strong>of</strong> Christ like thinking. Do you remember what Paul said about scripture?<br />
16 Every Scripture is God-breathed (given by His inspiration) and pr<strong>of</strong>itable for instruction, for<br />
repro<strong>of</strong> and conviction <strong>of</strong> sin, for correction <strong>of</strong> error and discipline in obedience, [and] for<br />
training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God's will in thought, purpose, and<br />
action), (2 Tim. 3:16, AMP)<br />
Paul says that scripture is God Breathed, or given by God the Holy Spirit and the (b) portion<br />
reveals that this scripture provides training in righteousness, bringing us into conformity with<br />
God’s will in THOUGHT, purpose and action, It was Paul in Romans 12 that reveal that the<br />
renewal <strong>of</strong> our thinking would reveal what God’s perfect will was for us.<br />
You are wondering why you cannot seem to lift yourself up beyond your fears. You are<br />
contemplating the almost incessant failures in your life. You are attempting to understand why<br />
you can’t seem to ever quite get over the hump. You may be asking yourself why you struggle<br />
with depression. You are thinking from a non-biblical perspective. You are trying to address<br />
spiritual matters with worldly solutions. Yes, these are all spiritual matters; they manifest<br />
themselves in some physical form, but the source is always spiritual.<br />
When you begin to think with the mind <strong>of</strong> Christ, you will be able to engage the enigmatic issues<br />
<strong>of</strong> life with confidence, because you understand who you are in Christ. A believer who thinks<br />
Bible doctrine instead <strong>of</strong> worldview understands who they are in Christ and they are not shaken<br />
by the demeaning or negative opinions <strong>of</strong> others.<br />
A believer that is steeped in Bible doctrine understands that “No weapon formed against them<br />
will prosper”. When a believer is faced with darkness, he is not overtaken by fear, but he<br />
understands that God has not given him a spirit <strong>of</strong> fear, but <strong>of</strong> power, <strong>of</strong> love, and <strong>of</strong> a sound<br />
mind (the ability to maintain mental stability in times <strong>of</strong> pressure and adversity).<br />
<strong>The</strong>re is a divine plan for your life that when followed leads you to a place <strong>of</strong> victory and<br />
fulfillment.
<strong>The</strong> battle <strong>of</strong> this life can be won when you follow divine mandate.<br />
Satan bombards believers with human viewpoint and then attacks them while watching them use<br />
the same erroneous views in an attempt to resolve the issue. Just imagine trying to fight a battle<br />
with a weapon that was supplied by your enemy. Yet, believers do this every day when we<br />
attempt to solve our issues through cosmic systems <strong>of</strong> thought such as rationalization, denial,<br />
sublimation and subjectivity. Having he Word <strong>of</strong> God settled in your heart stabilizes your mental<br />
attitude and allows you to productively live in your designed purpose.<br />
Just because you are a believer and covered by the blood <strong>of</strong> Christ it does not mean that your<br />
soul is automatically guarded against the satanic assaults <strong>of</strong> the enemy. Because we are saved,<br />
we cannot be possessed, so Satan seeks to influence the life <strong>of</strong> the believer through world<br />
systems <strong>of</strong> thought. This is why Paul told the Philippians to focus their minds on the things <strong>of</strong><br />
God.<br />
Meditate [keep thinking] upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy pr<strong>of</strong>iting<br />
[progress] may appear to all. Take heed unto yourself, and unto the doctrines; continue in them:<br />
for in doing this you shall save [deliver] yourself [from satanic doctrine and systems <strong>of</strong> thought],<br />
and them that hear you [those over whom you have influence]. (1 Tim. 4:15-16)<br />
And to the Corinthians, he said,<br />
Holding in readiness [the garrison <strong>of</strong> doctrine] to punish all deviation from obedience [revolt],<br />
when your obedience [deficiency <strong>of</strong> doctrine] has been fulfilled, so as to fully influence you. (2<br />
Cor. 10:6, corrected translations).<br />
Summation<br />
I hope that I have been successful in bringing some lucidity to this very impactful issue. It is time<br />
for believers to address the issue <strong>of</strong> mind renewal. <strong>Your</strong> thought processes are the centrality <strong>of</strong><br />
your existence. Until believers can apprehend this fact they will continue to fall victim to the<br />
devices <strong>of</strong> the enemy.<br />
You have been neutralized by the world views that you are exposed to daily. <strong>Your</strong> perspective <strong>of</strong><br />
your situations and circumstances are a direct reflection <strong>of</strong> your thought processes. You are<br />
being heavily influenced by secular paradigms that neutralize your ability to function as a
eliever. You have not been able to overcome certain obstacles that are perpetually present in<br />
your life because you are using human reasoning instead <strong>of</strong> divine viewpoint.<br />
You have the power <strong>of</strong> God at your disposal, but you must take on the thinking <strong>of</strong> Christ. Many<br />
<strong>of</strong> you have a victim complex. You have taken on the mindset that if anything can happen wrong<br />
it will happen to you. You are tired <strong>of</strong> being stepped on, but you don’t know how to step up out<br />
<strong>of</strong> the pit. I encourage you to pick up the Word <strong>of</strong> God and immerse yourself in it. Allow your<br />
mind to be renewed and your life transformed. You will begin to see a magnificent change in<br />
every aspect <strong>of</strong> your life.<br />
If you are a person that believes that you don’t have the time for serious Bible study, or you feel<br />
that you are not good at studying the Bible, there are numerous programs that you can obtain that<br />
will help. <strong>The</strong>re are audio Bibles on CD and Mp3. <strong>The</strong>re are programs that will share the<br />
powerful secrets <strong>of</strong> Scriptural affirmations as they reveal all that God has to say about you. You<br />
will find a few <strong>of</strong> them in this book and many more on my ministries website. You can visit our<br />
site by clicking Rick Wallace Ministries or by pasting the following URL in your browser:<br />
http://focusedchristian.blogspot.com<br />
Managing Hard Times with Grace<br />
By Edward T King<br />
All <strong>of</strong> us confront many sorts <strong>of</strong> trials and hardships day-by-day. From over-bearing illnesses<br />
like a diagnosis with a serious sickness to personal financial issues, work loss, loss <strong>of</strong> a spouse,<br />
to our run-<strong>of</strong>-the-mill stresses associated with our living conditions.<br />
In John 16:33, Jesus Christ claimed "In this world you will have anxiety. Yet take heart! I have<br />
triumphed over the world." Jesus is right that we are going to have difficulty in this world.<br />
Distress is all over. <strong>The</strong>re's scarcely somebody that is not affected by trials as well as problems.<br />
Nevertheless why would his friends who live on earth have courage because he has overcome?<br />
An individual can say this can be just fine for you Jesus that you have overcome this universe, I<br />
haven't and I am struggling to do it. <strong>The</strong> reason Jesus made this assertion is present in the<br />
scriptures. That's we're one with Christ.<br />
After we accepted God's unmerited favor, that grace made us to be called sons and daughters <strong>of</strong><br />
God. As a result <strong>of</strong> that, we're one in Spirit with God. Understanding our union with Jesus is very<br />
important in appreciating God's grace to us. God's unmerited favor that in fact made us one with<br />
Jesus additionally allows us to defeat challenges and tough situations as Jesus. That's how come<br />
Paul had the ability to assert "I am capable <strong>of</strong> doing everything because <strong>of</strong> Christ who gives<br />
strength to me." (Phil 4:13) Just how? Given that Jesus lives in Paul and he resides in Jesus. He<br />
and Jesus actually are spiritually united. Jesus not only strengthens him but in addition endures<br />
with him. At the same time, in the event where Paul discusses his toil in the call <strong>of</strong> God, Paul<br />
ascribes that to God's favor being employed in him (1Corin. 15:10). That blessing is Jesus Christ
esiding in him and operating inside <strong>of</strong> him by his Blessed Holy Spirit. <strong>The</strong> very scriptures prove<br />
this union with Jesus in numerous other ways. We are precisely regarded as the body <strong>of</strong> Christ as<br />
well as the future bride <strong>of</strong> Christ. Anyone is one with his very own body and with his wife. In the<br />
gospel <strong>of</strong> John 14:20, Jesus says, in that day you will understand that I'm inside my Father and<br />
you in me, and I in you.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Word <strong>of</strong> God brings this presentation <strong>of</strong> this union deeper. If we are insulted Christ is<br />
insulted. If we are injured Christ is injured. Here you will find a passage that in fact proves that:<br />
Acts <strong>of</strong> the Apostles 26:14 records that "We all fell onto the ground, and I heard a voice just<br />
saying to me in Aramaic, 'Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me? It is not so easy to have the<br />
ability to kick against the goads." In this section <strong>of</strong> the Scriptures, Paul who at the moment in his<br />
own life is a Pharisee is going places persecuting and torturing followers <strong>of</strong> Christ. He's along his<br />
road to the city <strong>of</strong> Damascus to catch and slay or punish <strong>Christian</strong> believers. In response to this,<br />
Jesus charges Paul <strong>of</strong> punishing him, not with persecuting <strong>Christian</strong> believers. So Jesus plainly<br />
identifies the <strong>Christian</strong>s being tortured as him! We and he are one, he experiences our pain!<br />
Well, now you understand that God adores us more than you love yourself, that God understands<br />
us greater than we all know ourselves, that you and Jesus are one and that we are positioned in<br />
heavenly realms with Christ Jesus.<br />
<strong>Christian</strong>s are in Jesus; Jesus is in God the Father. Jesus died as us as well as for us. He is seated<br />
on God's right hand as us and for us and once again believers are in him, you will be able to go<br />
through challenges with assurance that God goes through the trial and is feeling your pain. Not<br />
only so but that Jesus has won, ultimately have you!<br />
Additionally, you can find easy to comprehend, helpful information about the grace <strong>of</strong> God and<br />
how to answer the question: what is grace at www.whatisgrace.net . What is Grace is a complete<br />
website dedicated to helping all people begin and grow their understanding <strong>of</strong> God's grace.<br />
Visit What is grace today!