Christians talk a lot about "transforming the mind". It comes from the charge in Romans 12:2 to "...not conform any longer 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.".
What becomes so odd...especially in the Evangelical realm...is how "transforming the mind" can become used in a limiting fashion. For one, many choose to spend their faith investments focused completely on the mind without following it to the deeper seat of the spirit...the heart. Tragic, really. For another, "mind" is defined so narrowly. Unfortunately, so many in a solely modern way of thinking equate "mind" with "intellect". Basically, the more facts and arguments you know...the more transformed the mind becomes.
Sigh.
Yes, it's true that knowledge is powerful. An understanding of concepts can help build a great foundation. BUT..."knowledge", when used in scripture, is far more of an experiential concept. It assumes relationship with the divine. AND..."mind" actually refers to so much more than intellect. It can include the following and likely so much more:
* Wisdom. Growing in how to apply truth well is far different from intellect. Goodness, how many fact-smart people do you know who can argue a point to the ends of the earth yet are completely inept at applying wisdom?? TONS! It's definitely a place for transformative investment.
* Thought Patterns. We can have encyclopedia-equivalent knowledge packed in the recesses of the brain but not be equipped to interpret reality appropriately. We all have "grids"...those mental, emotional or spiritual lenses through which we choose to see our interactions...and those "grids" are primarily fueled by wounds. And honestly...if I may be so bold...I believe our free will...our ability to make choices...can be "bound". Yep...a limited ability to choose. The good news is that freedom is available for "grids" and a bound free will. Again...it's definitely a place for transformative investment.
* Imagination. There is the experience of truth that is not bound by what you can see, hear, smell, taste and feel. It is the seat of ideas, dreams...creativity. Powerful truths of myth and fairy tale, of vision and perspective are born and expressed there. God is so "for" it. And again...it's definitely a place for transformative investment.
So...if we, as Abba's children, are going to go after the transformation of the mind, why not explore more than just picking up all those facts and propositions? Wouldn't it be wonderful? I say...YES!!!
...and then let it lead you to that powerful heart of yours. :)
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