Lesson 11 for September 14, 2013

Reformation occurs as the Holy Spirit brings our thoughts into harmony with Christ’s thoughts. When that happens, our actions will follow.  What or who must we set our mind on?  What must we think about?  How can we control our thoughts?  How are thoughts and body related?  How are thoughts and actions related?

“If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:1-2) We must set our mind on Heaven, on Christ. When we turn our eyes upon Jesus, He transforms our thoughts and leads our actions. “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord” (2 Corinthians 3:18)

In Philippians 4:8, the apostle Paul gave us a filter for our thoughts. According to Paul, we must think about:  Whatever things are true.  Whatever things are noble.  Whatever things are just.  Whatever things are pure.  Whatever things are lovely.  Whatever things are of good report. And there is also a second filter:  If there is any virtue.  If there is anything praiseworthy. If we think, watch or read anything or visit any place that cannot satisfy those filters, we must stop it.

There is a simple answer to that question: WE CAN’T in our own strength. We need external help to control our thoughts. God will keep our thoughts if we let him to. The Word of God invites us to bring “every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5) If my thoughts are held by the positive principles of the Word of God, our mind will be safe and protected from the evil attacks by the grace of God. “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7)

E.G.W. (Counsels on Health, section 1, pg. 28)

“Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 5:23) God is calling us to a complete reformation for our entire being: physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Since mind and body are closely related, a complete reformation must include:  Mind reformation: “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” (Romans 12:2)  Body reformation: “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31)

“Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world” (Philippians 2:14-15) If our thoughts are controlled by Christ, our actions will reflect Christ’s light; we will be lights in the world (Mt. 5:14-16) Our external behavior and look will be in harmony with the purity of our thoughts. “Do not let your adornment be merely outward— arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel—rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God” (1 Peter 3:3-4)

“Although there may be a tainted, corrupted atmosphere around us, we need not breathe its miasma, but may live in the pure air of heaven. We may close every door to impure imaginings and unholy thoughts by lifting the soul into the presence of God through sincere prayer. Those whose hearts are open to receive the support and blessing of God will walk in a holier atmosphere than that of earth and will have constant communion with heaven” E.G.W. (Steps to Christ, cp. 11, pg. 99)