Change The Bait

Romans 12:1-2 “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”

Ephesians 4:23 (NLT) “Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.”

Think

In the vast realm of fishing, avid anglers understand a fundamental truth: if you're not catching what you desire, it's time to switch your bait. The same principle applies to lasting change in life – it necessitates a shift in thinking. Ephesians 4:23 urges us, "Let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes" (NLT). Spiritual renewal begins in the mind, shaping our thoughts and attitudes. Consider this: feelings are not standalone entities but responses to our thoughts. What we think dictates how we feel, and our emotions, in turn, influence our actions. If you aim to alter a self-defeating behavior, you must first transform your feelings. However, this change can't occur directly by simply deciding not to feel a certain way. Instead, it requires addressing the root – our thoughts.

In essence, you can change your actions by changing your feelings, and you can change your feelings by altering your thoughts. This process aligns with a biblical concept – repentance. The term "repentance" stems from the Greek word metanoia, where meta means "to change," and noia means "mind." Repentance, then, is a decision to change your mind, telling God you want to embark on a different direction and seeking His guidance to focus on right and good thoughts. By changing your mindset, you initiate a cascade effect – transforming your feelings, actions, and ultimately, your entire trajectory.

Are you catching bottom feeders? It is time to switch the bait, put something else on the line of your mind.

Apply

Capture your thoughts and direct them toward God's truth. Say this 3 times a day: I have the mind of Christ. I have the righteousness of Christ. I'm accepted in Christ. I'm forgiven in Christ. I'm gifted in Christ. I'm strengthened in Christ.

Pray

Jesus, guide us in the process of repentance, a simple yet profound act of changing our minds. Help us express our desire to go in a different direction and empower us to choose thoughts aligned with your righteousness. We ask for your divine assistance knowing we can’t do this in our own power. In Jesus’ name, Amen.