TITLE: 50 DAYS OF PRAYERS AND EXERCISES FOR THE NEW YEAR.

THEME: Preparing Mentally and Spiritually for a Blessed Year-End and A Fruitful   New Year

DAY 17 – 18 (TUESDAY 28^TH AND WEDNESDAY 29^TH NOVEMBER 2023 )

TOPIC: RENEW YOUR MIND ALWAYS

AUTHOR: MARY LAWRENCE-DOKPESI

SCRIPTURE:

“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

RENEW YOUR MIND ALWAYS

As we prepare to step into a new year, it is essential to reflect on the guidance provided in today’s word. The verse urges us not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. This transformation enables us to discern and embrace God’s will, which is good, pleasing, and perfect.

However, in a world filled with ever-changing trends and societal pressures, it can be easy to conform to worldly patterns and mindsets. However, as followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard. The renewal of our minds is a continuous process that involves aligning our thoughts and perspectives with God’s truth. By doing so, we gain clarity and insight into His will for our lives.

Conformity to Worldly patterns can manifest in various ways, such as adopting societal norms that contradict biblical principles, prioritizing material success over spiritual growth, or embracing secular ideologies that are incompatible with Christian beliefs. Conforming to worldly patterns can lead individuals away from God’s will, as it often involves compromising on moral and ethical standards set forth in Scripture.

Furthermore, the world often promotes self-centered mindsets that prioritize personal ambitions, desires, and gratification above all else. This can lead to a focus on individualism, consumerism, and the pursuit of temporal pleasures, which may conflict with the selfless and sacrificial nature advocated by the teachings of Jesus Christ. Such mindsets hinder believers from aligning with God’s will, as they foster attitudes of selfishness, pride, and a lack of concern for others.

Another aspect of worldly patterns and mindsets pertains to the influence of secular philosophies and worldviews. These may include humanism, relativism, materialism, and hedonism, among others. When individuals adopt these perspectives without discernment, they may inadvertently distance themselves from God’s truth and wisdom. Such philosophies often promote values that are contrary to biblical teachings, leading to a divergence from God’s will and hindering spiritual growth.

As we embark on a new year, let us commit to renewing our minds daily through prayer and meditation on God’s Word, and seeking His guidance in all aspects of our lives. By doing this, we position ourselves to experience the transformative power of God and discern His perfect will for us in the New Year.

SPIRITUAL EXERCISE:

1.     Take time to reflect on areas of your life where you may have conformed to worldly patterns or mindsets.

2.     Pray for God’s transformative power to renew your mind according to His will.

3.     Seek His guidance in making decisions that align with His good, pleasing, and perfect will.

 PRAYERS:

Heavenly Father, as I stand on the threshold of a new year, I humbly seek Your guidance and transformative power. Renew my mind according to Your will and help me resist the pressures of this world. Grant me the wisdom to discern Your good, pleasing, and perfect will in all that I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

FURTHER READING: Ephesians 4:23; Colossians 3:2; 2 Corinthians 10:5