Friday, November 14, 2008

Good Minds and Pure Hearts for God

Paul wrote to the Philippians that they were to keep their minds full of the good things of Christ. "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." (Philippians 4:8)

And, to the church in Rome, Paul wrote, "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God." (Romans 12:2) Christians see from these passages that when they work at keeping their minds pure, they are open to God's will and teachings in life. God's thoughts do not dwell in the minds of men and women corrupted by the world.

There is a purity of heart that God wants from His people as well. "Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God will all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind." (Matthew 22:37)

Jesus made everyone's heart, he paid for all hearts, and He will heal Christians hearts, even though it seems that these hearts are often damaged far beyond repair. It is the job of a Christian to keep the heart devoted to Him, and not be tempted to love the things of the world, other people, or even the gifts and talents He gives people much more than the love and devotion they give to Him. Let us bathe ourselves and each other in prayer, so that we may experience anew the pure and ever-refreshing love of Christ.

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