"The purpose of a transformed mind is to enable us to live in the grace of God and exemplify His love, His power, and His kingdom." Kathy Spampinato

Paul the Apostle testifies in the book of Acts, about the transformation of his life from one who persecuted Christians, to becoming a believer himself. He is telling his story to King Agrippa and other dignitaries.

Acts 26:24-26, 28-29 ESV ‘And as he was saying these things in his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, “Paul, you are out of your mind; your great learning is driving you out of your mind.” But Paul said I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I am speaking true and rational words. And Agrippa said to Paul, “In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?” And Paul said, “Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am -except for these chains.”’

In our lives, we’d like to tell others about what Jesus has done, and speak with wisdom and authority; to appear as if we have it all together. Our desire is to show that our thinking and reasoning are true. After all, the way we think is very rational to our own mind. It just makes sense to us. Why can’t others see it clearly? Sometimes our desire to appear wise, keeps us quiet before those we don’t think will understand. We do not want our friends to say, “Are you out of your mind?”

2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

Romans 12:2 ESV “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”

We do not all speak with authority and truth pouring from our hearts. We are often confused and needy. Our mind is sometimes full of conflicting ideas and opinions. What is a sound mind? Our natural mind makes sense to us, but may be based on human understanding, and not wisdom. The word of God clarifies and transforms the way we think, bringing it into line with the truth. Our minds must be renewed for us to discern the will of God.

Proverbs 8:26 “Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered.”

In 2 Timothy the words ‘a sound mind’ are also translated in other versions, as self-control, self-discipline, and a well-balanced mind. If we allow the Holy Spirit to lead us and transform our minds, we will grow in wisdom and be filled with the Holy Spirit of power and love. The purpose of a transformed mind is to enable us to live in the grace of God and exemplify His love, His power, and His kingdom. We grow to gain wisdom and understanding in the things of God.

1 Peter 3:8 “Finally, all of you have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but in the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.”

God has wisdom and understanding available to us as His children. Let’s walk in the light, as he is in the light, and we will have fellowship with one another. (1 John 1:7)