5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. 6 For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. (Romans 8:5-6)
Romans 8 is special to me. Years ago, I went through counseling centered around the big life questions. Basically, identity and meaning of life stuff. My guide, ironically named Darwin, pointed me to the book of Romans. I had attempted to read the Bible before, but didn’t quite get it. I think those of us who have read it extensively forget how difficult of a read it can be. However, Romans 8 has some deeply poignant and clear statements about the identity of God. I regularly come back to this chapter and especially to the first verse which is a needed reminder of my standing with the God of the universe.
Today I read it yet again and gleamed something new. This idea of setting our minds stood out to me. While our identity may be secure and our soul might be saved, we are still to intentionally set our minds. This stance is not normal. It runs counter to all of our instincts and desires as a revolution of the soul. I tell the teens I lead that to follow Christ is to be weird. Within the confines of our culture, it doesn’t make sense. But when we look at the world and what it calls normal, we quickly realize that it comes up short of bringing any lasting peace. Christ is to color our reality and minds with the ultimate over the immediate. His is a call to deeper. When I wake, it is crucial for me to set my mind in this direction. Otherwise, the constant flood of the urgent will drown my ability to choose better.
And in this, I often fail.
Today, what is your perspective? Does it have eternity in mind? Does it rise above the tyranny of the typical to something greater?
Lord, teach me to set my mind. Your ways are better, may we not settle for the fleeting but be consumed with the ultimate pulse of life which you unleash.
Matt simon blog 