Mind - A Great Change
Mind
- A Great Change
In Proverbs 23:7, we learn that as a man thinks in his heart, so he is. Our actions are almost always preceded by thoughts. Once we have committed our hearts and minds to Christ and are truly born again, our desires are changed from those which are sinful to those which are pure and godly. However, as long as we are here on earth, we can be tempted to think to do evil. Therefore, it is important that we make a conscious effort to direct our minds away from evil and toward the good. With our new godly nature, we must continue to live with minds controlled by the Spirit of God.
TEXT:
Romans 8:5-9; Philippians 2:3; 4:4-9
SEARCH KEY VERSE: “For as he
thinketh in his heart, so is he.” (Proverbs 23:7)
ANSWER KEY VERSE: “Thou wilt keep him in
perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee.” (Isaiah 26:3)
Which type of articles do we enjoy reading, Why?
How do the things we read and think about affect our emotions?
Philippians 4:8 8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
The importance of the things we think about.
In the world but not of the world –
Directly or indirectly affected – We cannot be indifferent
We are relational being– We relate with God and others, on contemporary issues
Issues of the day – dynamic and relative – we have a part to play
Identity – we maintain our Christian identity irrespective of our environment
Evil exists in many forms—violence, corruption, injustice, greed, immorality, oppression, hatred, and dishonesty.
Ignoring evil does not make it disappear; awareness helps believers pray, act wisely, and stand for truth.
Christians are called to be “salt” and “light” in a dark world.
Love the Sinner, Reject the Sin
Christianity teaches compassion toward people while refusing to approve sinful behavior.
Jesus showed mercy to sinners while calling them to repentance and change.
Articles in newspapers or magazines may reveal:
Crime, kidnapping, violence, and abuse
Poverty caused by injustice
Drug addiction and trafficking
Family breakdown and neglect
Dishonesty in business or leadership
Racism, tribalism, hatred, and discrimination
Other articles may show:
Churches feeding the hungry and helping the poor
Disaster relief and humanitarian aid
Forgiveness and reconciliation after conflict
Mission work, education, and healthcare outreach
Defending the weak, voiceless, and oppressed
Youth mentoring and moral guidance
Does news about evil move me to prayer or just criticism?
Do I show Christ’s love while standing against wrong?
Is my own life an example of Christianity in action?
Do not become hardened by constant bad news.
Do not become bitter toward sinners.
Instead, become active in faith, compassion, holiness, and service.
The world needs Christians who confront evil with truth and overcome hatred with love.
Romans 12:9 “Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.”
Whom resist stedfast in the faith…”
“A Christian heart does not close its eyes to evil—it confronts darkness with truth, compassion, and courage.”
“We are called to love people deeply, while refusing to make peace with the sins that destroy them.”
“Ignoring evil never removes it; standing for righteousness exposes it.”
“Every headline of violence, greed, or injustice is a reminder that the world needs the light of Christ.”
“Darkness may fill the news, but one act of Christian love still shines brighter.”
“Where society spreads hatred, Christians must spread mercy, truth, and healing.”
“Our reaction to evil should be prayer, wisdom, and holy action—not silence.”
“The world may report evil daily, but Heaven records every act of love done in Jesus’ name.”
“Do not merely observe the condition of the world—be part of God’s answer to it.”
Sadness over the spread of sin and suffering.
Gratitude for people who serve others selflessly.
A renewed desire to pray for the world.
Motivation to help those in need personally.
Determination to live as a godly example.
Hope that Christ’s love is still changing lives.
Next to each, answer:
“What does God want me to learn or do from this?”
End with prayer: Pray that God will keep your heart sensitive, eyes discerning, and hands ready to do good.”
Meditation takes time, it must be done in depth, the subject must really be “digested” and broken down.
Apply this broadened understanding of the word meditate to the following Scriptures:
Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1:2; 1 Timothy 4:15.
Joshua 1:8; 8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.
Meditation?
- to engage in contemplation or reflection
To meditate means to think deeply, carefully, and continuously about something.
It involves focused reflection, thoughtful consideration, and quiet concentration.
Meditation is more than casual thinking—it is purposeful and meaningful pondering.
In Scripture, to meditate often means to reflect on God’s Word, His character, His works, and His will.
Biblical meditation fills the mind with truth rather than emptying the mind.
It is not only mental activity but also spiritual attention.
Meditation helps thoughts become convictions and convictions become actions.
It brings clarity in confusion.
It produces peace in stressful times.
It gives wisdom for decisions.
It deepens understanding of spiritual truths.
God’s promises
Lessons from Scripture
Areas needing growth and repentance
Purpose and direction for life
Ways to serve others
A calmer spirit
Renewed thinking
Stronger relationship with God
Better choices and attitudes
Increased gratitude and joy
Set aside quiet time daily.
Think about each word carefully.
Ask how it applies to your life.
Pray over what you learn.
Carry the lesson through the day.
Not all meditation is beneficial.
Choose thoughts that uplift, purify, and guide.
Meditation turns information into transformation.
When the mind rests on truth, the life begins to reflect it.
“To meditate is to pause long enough for truth to sink deeply into the heart.”
“Meditation is not empty thinking—it is focused reflection that brings wisdom.”
“To meditate means to think carefully, deeply, and prayerfully about something important.”
“A mind that meditates on good things grows stronger and wiser.”
“Meditation is the art of slowing down the mind so the soul can listen.”
“To meditate is to dwell on truth until it shapes your thoughts and actions.”
“When you meditate, you turn knowledge into understanding.”
“Meditation is quiet reflection that transforms scattered thoughts into clear purpose.”
“To meditate on God’s Word is to let divine truth guide daily living.”
“A few moments of deep meditation can bring clarity that hours of rushing cannot.”
Choose one verse and meditate on it daily for one week.
Record what new insights, peace, or changes you notice in your thoughts and actions.
These include:
Isaac: Genesis 24:63 63 And Isaac went out to meditate in the field at the eventide: and he lifted up his eyes, and saw, and, behold, the camels were coming.
Joshua 1:8 and 1 Timothy 4:15 mention specific benefits.
-the growth of spirituality, and the potential for a stronger, more vibrant witness to others.
The good old-time way and method
-Do it as it was done – get the same results
Good legacy – “Be ye followers of me”
1 Corinthians 11:1 Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.
God specifically commanded Joshua to meditate on the Book of the Law day and night.
Meditation gave him courage, wisdom, and direction.
2. David
David frequently wrote about meditating on God’s law, testimonies, works, and statutes.
Meditation helped him through trials, battles, failures, and victories.
3. Moses
Moses spent time in God’s presence and received His commandments.
Meditation prepared him to lead a difficult people faithfully.
4. Isaac
Isaac is described as going out into the field to meditate.
Solitude often creates room to hear God clearly.
5. Daniel
Daniel consistently studied sacred writings, prayed, and sought understanding.
Reflection gave him strength in a hostile environment.
6. Ezra
Ezra prepared his heart to seek the Law of God, do it, and teach it.
7. Jeremiah
Jeremiah treasured God’s words even in painful times.
Lessons from Their Lives
Meditation Produces Strength:
These men faced wars, opposition, temptation, exile, and responsibility.
Meditation Produces Wisdom:
They made better decisions because their minds were shaped by truth.
Those who dwell on God’s Word are more likely to walk in God’s ways.
Great lives are often built in quiet moments of reflection.
The heroes of the Old Testament were not strong merely because of position, but because they learned to keep their hearts anchored in God’s Word.
“Joshua was charged to meditate on God’s law day and night, showing that victory begins with a mind fixed on God’s Word.”
“David delighted in the law of the Lord and meditated on it continually, proving that worship grows where Scripture is treasured.”
“Isaac went out into the field at eventide to meditate, reminding us that quiet moments with God bring clarity and peace.”
“Ezra set his heart to seek, study, and teach God’s law, modeling a life shaped by reflection on divine truth.”
“Daniel consistently sought God through prayer and reflection, standing firm because his heart was anchored in God’s promises.”
“Jeremiah found God’s words and ate them, showing that meditation turns Scripture into spiritual strength.”
“Moses communed often with God and received His law, revealing that those who linger in God’s presence shine before others.”
“Asaph meditated on the works and ways of God, discovering renewed understanding in difficult times.”
If these godly people needed meditation to stay strong, what does that suggest about your own spiritual needs?
How often do you think deeply about God’s Word compared to how often you read or hear it?
Which of these Old Testament examples do you most relate to, and why?
What distractions currently prevent you from meditating deeply on God’s Word?
How can you gradually build a stronger habit of reflection like Daniel, who remained spiritually focused even in a challenging environment?
Share your Scriptures and special thoughts revealed through meditation.
Matthew 6:33 33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
-God first
-Door that leads to doors
-Right seeking – leads to right answers and results
1. Put God First in Everything:
This verse teaches that life works best when God is given first place.
2. Priorities Determine Direction:
Meditation on this verse reveals that many struggles come from misplaced priorities.
3. Trust Instead of Worry
The surrounding passage speaks about anxiety over food, clothing, and daily needs.
4. Seek the Kingdom Daily
Seeking God’s kingdom means pursuing His rule in our hearts, choices, attitudes, and actions.
5. Righteousness as a Lifestyle
Seeking His righteousness means wanting to live cleanly, honestly, lovingly, and obediently.
God Must Be Central, Not Secondary:
This verse showed that God should not receive leftovers of time, attention, or devotion.
Provision Follows Obedience:
Many blessings come when we focus first on God rather than obsessing over material things.
When life feels stressful, this verse restores calm by reminding us what matters most.
In uncertain seasons, this Scripture gives confidence that God can care for every need.
In decision-making, it asks one question: “Does this put God first?”
Start each day with prayer and devotion.
Trust Him with needs while pursuing His purpose.
Keep eternal priorities above temporary pressures.
When the kingdom is first, worry loses its throne.
One rightly placed priority can transform everything else.
“One verse deeply meditated upon can become strength for many difficult seasons.”
“God’s Word often speaks loudest when it is pondered quietly.”
“The Scriptures we carry in our hearts become anchors in storms.”
“Meditating on God’s promises turns anxiety into assurance.”
“A remembered promise can become daily courage.”
“The Word of God is not only to be read—it is to be leaned upon.”
How are you currently applying the truth of that Scripture in your daily life?
Have you shared that verse or its impact with someone else who might need encouragement?
How can you continue to live in the strength of that Word moving forward?
The individual’s time for meditation can be whenever the Lord lays it on his heart.
I stay awake before the night passes so I can quietly think deeply about God’s Word.
I rise in the still hours of the night to reflect on God’s truth.
My heart is eager to spend peaceful time meditating on the promises of God.
1. God’s Word Is Worth Making Time For
We must value God’s word so much that even late or early hours were used for meditation.
2. Quiet Moments Can Become Sacred Moments
Night seasons are often calm and free from distraction.
3. Meditation Requires Intention
Spiritual growth rarely happens by accident.
4. Hunger for God Brings Strength
A soul that longs for God’s Word gains wisdom, peace, and direction.
Early morning, late evening, or any quiet time can become a place of renewal through Scripture.
Replace restless thoughts with truth-filled thoughts.
Use quiet hours for growth instead of worry.
Time spent reflecting on God’s Word is never wasted.
Psalm 1:2 “But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.”
“Before the night hours pass, my eyes remain open so I can meditate on what You have spoken.”
“I rise in the quiet of the night to reflect on Your truth and treasure Your promises.”
“Even when others sleep, I keep watch to fill my heart with thoughts of Your faithful Word.”
“Through the silent hours of darkness, I remain awake, focusing my mind on Your promises.”
“My eyes are awake before the night watches end, because I long to meditate on Your Word.”
“When the world is quiet, I turn my thoughts to Your promises and draw strength from them.”
“I spend the late hours awake, not in worry, but in meditation on what You have said.”
How can you create quiet time in your day or night to reflect on God’s Word?
What distractions might you need to reduce in order to focus more deeply on Scripture?
How can you turn moments of quiet or waiting into opportunities for meditation?
Read the verse aloud.
Give your examples for remembering the “days of old,” meditating on “all thy works” and the “work of thy hands.”
- “all thy works refers to God’s dealings and strivings with man, while “the work of thy hands” refers to His creations.
The mind is an engine room where ideas/thoughts are processed
The inputs devices to the mind are the 5 human senses
There must be a filter of what is deliberately allowed as inputs
-Filter the human senses with godliness – appropriate things
Meaning:
Reflect on God’s faithfulness in past times.
Thinking about a time when God provided finances, healing, peace, or opened a door when things seemed impossible.
Think deeply about God’s mighty acts, power, wisdom, and dealings throughout history.
Meditating on how God parted the Red Sea, protected Daniel, or fed Elijah in famine.
Meaning:
Consider God’s creation and the evidence of His wisdom and power.
Looking at the sky, stars, rain, trees, mountains, or the complexity of the human body and recognizing divine design.
Instead of dwelling on fear, regret, or worry, fill the mind with God’s faithfulness, works, and creation.
When we remember what God has done, courage rises again.
The more we notice God’s hand, the more thankful we become.
What has God done for me before?
What mighty works of God encourage me today?
What in creation reminds me of His greatness?
A mind fixed on God’s works grows stronger.
Deuteronomy 32:7 “Remember the days of old, consider the years of many generations: ask thy father, and he will shew thee; thy elders, and they will tell thee.”
I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings.”
1. “I remember the days of old”
“Yesterday’s miracles are reminders that today’s problems are not too hard for God.”
“The God who provided bread in the desert still knows how to meet every need.”
3. “I muse on the work of thy hands”
“Every sunrise, every star, and every breath quietly declares the greatness of God.”
“When we remember what God has done, fear begins to lose its voice.”
“Creation is a daily sermon about the wisdom and power of its Maker.”
“The hands that formed the world are still able to guide your life.”
“Thinking on God’s goodness fills the heart with peace and gratitude.”
How can you intentionally practice remembering God’s goodness each day?
What specific Bible stories or personal testimonies can you meditate on this week?
How can you turn moments of seeing nature into worship and reflection?
Write one Bible event (“God’s works”) that strengthens your faith.
Write one observation from nature (“work of His hands”) that reminds you of God.
It may be easy to allow our minds to become filled with the events and circumstances of our lives. These things may be good things. The Christian probably will not be tempted to dwell upon things that are worldly or sinful. But even the good things of our lives may occupy so much of our attention that we do not set aside enough time to dwell or meditate on things which would help us develop spiritually.
The best is best for God
If you want God’s best, give Him your best
You are the one to profit
What we think about consistently influences our attitudes, decisions, priorities, and spiritual growth.
2. Good Thoughts Are Not Always the Highest Thoughts
Some thoughts are good and necessary: work, responsibilities, family needs, planning, health, finances, and daily tasks.
3. Good Can Keep Us from Better
Constantly thinking only about duties may leave no room for reflection, gratitude, learning, or spiritual growth.
4. Better Can Keep Us from Best
Even worthy thoughts such as success, goals, self-improvement, or achievement can still distract from the highest priorities.
5. The Best Thoughts Are Eternal and Transforming
The best use of the mind includes meditating on truth, God’s Word, love, righteousness, wisdom, gratitude, and service.
6. Examples of the Three Levels
Good: Paying bills, Work schedules, Household tasks, Daily obligations
A mind filled only with urgent matters often neglects important matters.
We must choose not only between bad and good, but between good, better, and best.
A wise heart learns to give first place to what matters most.
Luke 10:41–42 “And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:
But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”
“Not every thought that is harmless is helpful, and not every helpful thought is highest.”
“The mind can be so occupied with many good things that it leaves little room for the best things.”
“Necessary thoughts manage life, better thoughts improve life, but best thoughts transform life.”
“A busy mind may handle duties well and still neglect the soul.”
“If every thought is earthly, the heart grows empty of heavenly strength.”
“What fills your mind eventually directs your life.”
“The enemy of the best is often not evil, but distraction.”
“Many people lose peace not because they think bad thoughts, but because they never make room for the highest ones.”
“To think only about making a living and never about living for God is an expensive trade.”
“The best thoughts are those that draw us nearer to truth, holiness, and purpose.”
“When the mind gives first place to God, everything else finds its proper place.”
What occupies most of my thoughts each day?
Are necessary concerns consuming spiritual priorities?
Am I feeding my mind with temporary matters more than eternal truth?
What distractions (social media, anxiety, busyness) need to be reduced to make room for better thinking?
What specific steps will you take this week to focus more on “best” thoughts rather than only “good” ones?
Think gratefully, not only anxiously.
Balance responsibilities with spiritual priorities.
Replace trivial thoughts with meaningful ones.
Perfect peace. Man today is searching in many avenues for peace.
-Name some of these.
The answer to having true peace is found in this Scripture. How important it is to allow our minds to dwell on Christ!
Our part is a reaction to God’s covenant provision
-Know the price and pay the price
It pays to serve Jesus
My heart is fixed!
-Stop your wandering heart – Anchor your soul in the haven of rest
-Stop sailing the wild seas – Be anchored
When the mind is fixed on God instead of fear, confusion, or circumstances, He gives peace.
2. “Perfect Peace” Means Deep and Complete Peace
Not shallow calmness, but inner stability.
3. Peace Is Linked to Trust
The verse says peace comes because the person trusts in God.
4. A Fixed Mind Is a Stable Mind
A wandering mind often breeds anxiety.
5. Peace Does Not Depend on Circumstances
Storms may still exist around us, yet peace can exist within us.
Meditate on His Promises:
Replace fearful thoughts with truth from Scripture.
Pray Continually:
Turn worries into prayers.
Remember Past Faithfulness:
Recall how God has helped before.
Praise Instead of Panic:
Worship redirects attention from problems to God’s greatness.
When Stress Comes:
Instead of letting fear rule the mind, intentionally focus on God’s character, promises, and power.
A mind centered on God becomes less shaken by temporary troubles.
When the mind rests on God, the heart learns to rest also.
John 14:27 (“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
“A mind fixed on God finds peace that circumstances cannot steal.”
“When thoughts rest on God, the heart rests in peace.”
“Perfect peace is not the absence of trouble, but the presence of trust.”
“The storm may continue outside, but peace can remain within.”
“An unsettled world cannot shake a heart anchored in God.”
“Peace grows where trust in God lives.”
“Keeping the mind on God turns anxiety into assurance.”
“When the mind stays on God, fear loses its throne.”
“God gives steady peace to those who keep steady trust in Him.”
“The secret of inner calm is not controlling life, but trusting the One who does.”
“The mind that dwells on God becomes a home for peace.”
What practical steps can you take to keep your mind more fixed on God daily?
How can you redirect your thoughts when worry or fear begins to rise?
What habits might you need to reduce in order to maintain a steadier focus on God?
The obvious answer will be to meditate on God’s Word. Another would be to read more of God’s Word.
The Gospel is organic – it grows and reproduces life
Growth is a necessity –
You cannot remain the person you were and be what you want to be
-Growth must be progressive and sustainable
Who were you and who are you now – Looking back, in retrospect
Spiritual maturity does not happen automatically.
2. Follow the Call to Grow
Peter the Apostle urges believers to grow in grace and knowledge.
Growth is both expected and possible.
Daily Scripture Meditation:
I plan to set aside time each day to read and meditate on God’s Word.
Consistent Prayer Life:
I plan to deepen my prayer life by speaking honestly with God and listening quietly before Him.
Guard My Thoughts:
I plan to be more careful about what I allow into my mind.
Pure and uplifting thoughts help form Christlike character.
Practice What I Learn:
I plan not only to hear truth but to apply it in attitudes, speech, and conduct.
I plan to look for opportunities to encourage, forgive, help, and serve others.
Learn Continually:
I plan to remain teachable, humble, and eager to learn more of God’s ways.
Evaluate My Progress Regularly:
I plan to examine my life honestly:
More faithful?
More loving?
More disciplined?
Small consistent steps in grace become visible strength over time.
Hebrews 6:1 “Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,”
That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,”
“Christian stature does not grow by accident; it grows through daily choices that draw us nearer to God.”
“Grace grows where discipline, humility, and devotion are practiced consistently.”
“To increase in Christian stature is to become more like Christ in thought, word, and action.”
“I plan to grow in Christian stature by feeding my spirit with God’s Word, strengthening my prayer life, and living each day in a way that honors Christ.”
“Small daily steps in devotion often produce great spiritual growth over time.”
“The goal is not merely to appear religious, but to become spiritually mature.”
“When we pursue growth sincerely, God supplies the grace to continue.”
What concrete action will you take this week to increase your Christian stature?
Who can encourage or hold you accountable in your spiritual growth journey?
How will you measure whether you are actually growing and not remaining the same?
@AFM SEARCH LESSONS
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