Apr 23 2009
Why We Need the Mind of Christ
Philippians 2:2, and v. 5: “Make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Have this attitude in yourselves, which was also in Christ Jesus.”
We often hear the term ”the mind of Christ” used these days. And though it’s not specified in exactly those words in Scripture, the meaning is clear. It means that we who are mere mortals can approach the throne of God and ask Him to allow us to see things as He does. Incredible, isn’t it?
But it also comes with great reponsibility. We must submit our hearts and minds to Him and let go of our preconceived notions and expectations, letting Him replace them with His insights and wisdom.
Do we do this easily? I believe that’s the rub–the main reason why more people aren’t willing to yield themselves completely to God. They think they’re giving up their autonomy, the one thing we humans grasp tightly with both hands until the day we die.
The thing is, we don’t realize that when we submit to God we’re giving up nothing but tattered rags in exchange for riches untold–the riches of understanding and discernment that God offers so freely. He wants us to be equipped to deal with the world and the devil, and He wants us to come out victorious in the battle. But often we are shortsighted and can only see what we’re losing, which, in the end, is not lost at all, but is only strengthened by God’s presence. God doesn’t take away our autonomy as much as He merges it with His will and purpose for our lives, strengthening us in our inner man to be effective, doing exactly what we’re meant to do. And in its own way, that fulfills us.
It’s much like a little child who is trying to use a piece of equipment he is unfamiliar with and hasn’t the skill to use. When he does it himself the end product is never satisfactory and he is repeatedly frustrated But when his father comes along and sets him on his lap and the two do it together, not only is the end product a masterpiece, but they have fun being together, working in sync to make something special happen. And in the process the child learns new skills that will benefit him as he grows older.
Going it alone is also dangerous because without God we as humans, are powerless against the wiles of the enemy. And lest we think otherwise, the devil’s influence is not limited to those who believe he exists. In fact, he is much more effective when people deny his existence. Subterfuge at its sneaky best.
Seeing and discerning with the mind of Christ will be ever more vital as time passes and things get tougher. Especially since the devil is unleashing all he has on the world, knowing his time is short. Scripture says he deceiver will do his best to confuse and fool us all, even the elect, if possible.
That makes it all the more important for us to draw near to God, repenting of our sin, and making Jesus the reason we live, giving Him first place in our lives. If we want to come out on the side of heaven and God, we absolutely must not neglect doing the things that will get us there.
Jesus is coming soon, so let’s make haste to do His will.
Because of His great love,
Nancy
