SOMETHING TO PONDER AT THE CLOSE OF EACH DAY

"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind." - Romans 12:2

Not being conformed to the world is not something that happens easily. We are so very easily swept away by what is in front of us. There are so many ideas in this world that can be appealing, lifestyles that feel comfortable, and ways to live that quickly pull us away from kingdom living. There are so many opportunities to get distracted either mentally or emotionally by the things that are pushed on us from every corner of our lives. News, social media, family, friends, work, obligations, and more! All of these things grab at our attention, oftentimes taking us away from our main purpose in this life, which is to know God and make him known. 

All of this and more is why our minds need renewal daily. How do we find renewal or strength to walk this narrow road? By meditating on God’s Word and inviting his spirit into our everyday lives, by pausing to worship and living with gratitude, and by letting all that is good, noble, and beautiful be our focus. We need constant reminders of who God is and what he desires for our lives to look like! 

I invite you to end the day considering who God is. He is good, he is faithful, he is just, he is making all things new, and he is full of love for us. Remember that his ways are different from those that seem right to the world. It takes intentional living to stay on his narrow path. Be dedicated to renewing your thoughts to match his so you are not swept away by the tide of the world. 

YOUR NIGHTLY PRAYER

Father,
I thank you that your way is better than my way. Let your Spirit renew my mind and strength so I can stay on the narrow road that leads to you. Help me to be diligent in considering kingdom things so I am not distracted by worthless things. Teach me your ways, and show me your path. Give me the strength I need to follow you. Show me what is wise in this loud and confusing world.  
Amen.

THREE THINGS TO MEDITATE UPON 

1. Remember how you have seen God at work today. Give thanks for his provision in your life. 

2. Take time to recite and memorize Romans 12:2  as a way to keep God’s word on your heart as you rest. 

3. Visualize setting aside distractions so you can live with a mind focused on God’s way.