Changing the way I think is one of my deepest desires. Sometimes, my thought process leads me down a path that causes pain. Thinking too hard about all the moments I’ve missed with my grandchildren always results in tears. As I count down to April and celebrating Eliana’s 10th Birthday, I’m excited and conflicted. Our family is scattered across several countries and continents. Being in one place means missing out on something or someone else. So when I came across this familiar verse in the New Living Translation the other day, it hit differently.
Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT
I cannot change what has already happened, but I can allow God to change my thought patterns and help me become a new person in the process.
Let God
When I read the words ‘let God’ it clicked for me that we don’t transform ourselves, as social media and pop psychology would have us believe. We can not manifest holiness in our lives with positive thinking. Our lives are transformed by God. If we let Him, that is. It has made me look at other verses in a new light. After all, what else have I tried to do on my own that I need to release into His control? Where else in my life do I need to let God work?
I wrote a note to myself, a prayer actually, tucked it into a small folder, and went for a walk. As I walked I prayed for Him to reveal a list of areas to ‘Let Him’ for me to contemplate. I shared a few on Instagram and Facebook. But here are a few more that I’m willing to share with you, dear one:
- Let Him guide you with His Light. John 8:12
- Let Him be your example. 1 Peter 2:21
- Let Him shine through you. 2 Corinthians 2:4
- Let Him come close to you. James 4:8
- Let Him be your focal point. Hebrews 12:2
- Let Him give you rest. Matthew 11:28
In the days and weeks to come I intend to ponder these as well. But for now, for today, I will let God transform me by changing the way I think. So much happens in our thoughts, but He can take them captive one by one, and make things work for our good and His glory. May we surrender, and release our grip and let the Lord take over.
*For those of you who prayer walk, consider how you can let God have more access in your life.