The Bible tells us, that we should not only study it but apply what we’ve learned. When we let the Holy Spirit renew our minds through the Word of God and put it into practice, our lives get transformed.
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. James 1:22
How do we apply the Word? There are Scriptures that specifically tell us what to do, while others are intended to change our hearts and attitudes. First and foremost, Scriptures should, with the help of the Holy Spirit, renew our minds:
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2
We renew our minds by studying the Word. That’s how we uncover lies and fill our hearts with the truth. The Bible tells us who God is and affirms our identity in Christ. It changes our hearts and minds while showing us the way in the right direction. If you want to live your life in a godly way, start by letting the Scripture transform the way you’re thinking. The Bible tells us, that as you think in your heart, so are you (Proverbs 23:7).
Changing your life starts with renewing your mind. As you stop believing the lies and start living according to the truth, you will experience more peace, joy, and freedom than ever before. When you leave your old ways of thinking and living behind and put on your new life in Christ, you’re walking towards the fullness of what God has for you.
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 2. Corinthians 5:17
The moment you gave your life to Christ, you received a whole new identity. You are liberated (John 8:36) and forgiven (1. John 1:9). You’ve received the Holy Spirit, who will lead and guide you in all things (John 14:26).
It’s up to you to embrace the new and to leave your old ways of living behind:
You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:22-24
God calls you to let go of your past and your old ways of living. This is a fresh start for you! This passage says that you were created to be like God. How amazing is this! You are called to be righteous and holy like God is.
But sanctification is a process. As you study the Bible, hidden lies, attitudes, and sins in your heart begin to surface. Things will come to light that you may be uncomfortable with:
For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12
Know that God’s grace is bigger than every sin you’ve ever committed.
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2:8-9
We’re studying the Bible to grow closer to God and let him change our hearts, attitudes, and our whole lives. Staying the same while reading the Bible is not possible. The Word of God challenges and provokes change.
You are not alone in this. The Holy Spirit leads you in every step of the way (John 14:16). All you have to do is take one day at a time. Spend time with God today and read your Bible. Ask him to take the lead in changing your heart. Be patient and trust him.
What you’ve just read was an excerpt from a FREE Bible Study Guide I created just for you. It’s 19 pages long and covers all the basics you need to know about studying the Bible. Besides the topic of renewing your mind, the following subjects are included:
-Genres in the Bible
-The exact steps on how you can study the Bible for yourself
-How to meditate on a verse
-How to stay in the Word to bring forth fruit
…and much more!
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