1^st April

 “So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace.”

Romans 8:6

 So often in the bible, there are passages that say if you do this or that then you will reap the repercussions of your bad choices. Alternatively if you live according to the Spirit then you will be blessed in this way or that. Interestingly today’s passage is one of those examples.

As discussed yesterday the way to transform holy living is by the renewing of our minds. However, today’s passage highlights an even greater truth, in that if we keep letting our sinful nature control our minds, then it will lead to death. This death is a spiritual death. An evil thought, although still harmful can almost be harmless if not acted upon. However that evil thought not dealt with only leads to death if we let it stay in our minds. It is a strong reminder that sinful thoughts not dealt with have severe consequences.

However, this verse does not end on a negative note. We can take encouragement in knowing that when we let the Holy Spirit control our minds (total submission), the benefits are a life of peace and joy. Jesus said He came to bring life and life in its fullness. If so, then by having a clean and pure mind, we can live life to its fullness. That is a promise. But we need to do our part too.

This is a great verse to memorise, so that when you feel tempted by thoughts contrary to Godly living, you can quote and remind yourself that pondering, dwelling on and meditating upon them will lead to death but rebuking and replacing with Spiritual thoughts leads to life and peace.