Mind of a True Believer
This post looks at the mind of a true believer. The main points are taken from the book ‘Reflections of a Discerning Christian’ by Nelson Thomas. I have also added a few of my own points after meditating on the same verses.
A Right Mind
Luke 8:35 - Then they went out to see what had happened, and came to Jesus, and found the man from whom the demons had departed, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind. And they were afraid.
[Similar to Mark 5:25] The idea of a right mind here refers to having self control over both thoughts and actions. When the man was demon possessed, he could not be controlled or tamed. When Jesus heals him, he reigns in that uncontrollable nature.
A Sound Mind
2 Timothy 1:7 - For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
Paul addresses Timothy in this verse since he knew that Timothy was somewhat fearful. He reminded him that fear doesn’t come from God. He has given us the spirit of power to do His work and proclaim His word. He has given us the spirit of love to serve others. He has also given us the spirit of a sound mind. This means that we can be calm and self-controlled rather than panicked or confused in times of fear
A Pure Mind
2 Peter 3:1 - Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder)
There are two ways to interpret the pure mind. It can mean untainted or it can mean sincere (Philippians 1:10). Peter is encouraging the believers to have a pure mind, so that their faith would be active. In this way, they can live holy lives. By stirring up a pure mind, you are reminded of the doctrine that you hold dear, so that you hold that close rather than the temptations that lurk around.
A Spiritual Mind
Romans 8:6 - For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
This verse emphasizes the idea of choosing to be spiritually minded rather than governed by the flesh (or carnally minded). This means focusing on spiritual desires and on how to please God. It means sharing the message of the Gospel, displaying the fruit of the spirit, meditating on scripture, prayer, and fellowship with other believers. Being spiritually minded means that you have intimacy with God. That relationship is the priority.
A Girded Mind
1 Peter 1:13 - Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;
This phrase “gird up the loins of your mind” means to be ready and prepare for action. It also means to have control over your mind - being sober and rational. It is self-discipline and deciding to set your mind on the things of heaven rather than on earth.
A Garrisoned Mind
Philippians 4:7 - and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
The peace of God mounts a garrison around our hearts and minds. His peace guards us. We will still face problems, but God’s peace will sustain us through them.
A Renewed Mind
Romans 12:2 - 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.
We are useless to Christ if we claim to be Christians but conform to the world around us. Renewing of the mind means to transform your mind and life according to God’s will and His word.
A United Mind
Romans 15:5 - Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus,
To be like-minded means being in harmony with your fellow believers. This doesn’t mean that we will always have the exact same opinions or thoughts as our fellow believers, but it does reflect our attitude toward each other and Christ.
