A key element of the Christian life is the thought processes. Many Christians often try to change their actions, but fail because they don�t try to change the underlying thoughts. We need more lessons from our pulpit on the way we think.
Before we became Christians, we were self-centered in our thinking and motives. We served self to please self. But those ways are not God�s ways, and those thoughts are different than God�s thoughts (Isaiah 55:8-9). It is impossible for someone with a selfish nature to please God (Romans 8:8).
When we become Christians, we need to put the self to death, and allow Christ to live in us. We become Christ-centered in our thinking and motives, and we should seek a relationship with Jesus to please Him. Our actions should obey Christ, but that is only done by capturing the thoughts behind our actions and make them obey Christ. We are to renew our minds and test and approve what God�s will is (Romans 12:2).
How do we do this? Prayer, meditation, Bible study, not being so quick to act before we think. Many more things could be listed, but all is vain without denying self and trusting Jesus to live through you..
We need to change our way of thinking before we can change our way of acting.
To see my previous devotionals, go to