Some “through the bible” thoughts from Romans 8.
“For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace” (Romans 8:6).
The word “mind” occurs five times in Romans 8:5-7. The word refers to a way of thinking, a mindset. It’s a person’s aim, aspiration, or striving. One commentator described the mind as “a strategic battleground where the Spirit and the flesh fight.”
It reminded me of something I hear in my workout videos (BODi.com). Basically, let your body follow rather than rule your mind. Rather than letting your body tell you, “I’m tired and and I want to sleep in,” you get up when the alarm goes off and get moving. Your body follows. On a long run, my body would get tired, but I’d keep going, remembering my training and previous runs. My body would follow. When you’re hungry, your body may say, “Junk.” Your mind will remember, “Nutrition.” You’ll eat healthy, and your body will be satisfied.
That’s not to say you should never listen to your body. It will tell you when you’re injured and need to heal, when something is too hot to touch, when you need to go to the bathroom, or when throw out rather than eat that funky-smelling food.
But a mind set on Christ will butt heads with a body that is drawn to forbidden fruit, cheap thrills, “do not touch” signs, and selfish choices. We know this world is passing away. We know Christ will lead us to life. Yet that tug-of-war is our favorite game.
A regular helping of God’s word first thing in the morning helps my minds get a head start on the tyranny of the flesh. I don’t always win, but Christ already has. Thank goodness he’s in my head as well as my heart.
I had more thoughts on the mind last summer.
Waite for it... 