FollowWe purchase milk for our families devoid of bovine growth hormones. We stock up on organic produce that contains neither pesticide nor chemical fertilizer residue. We suck down vitamins and supplements like water. We look for whole grains, and seek out fresh fruits and vegetables from local farmers’ markets. We avoid high-fructose corn syrup, refined sugars, MSG, trans fats, and high-caloric foods.
We give such high regard to the care and maintenance of our physical bodies. Do we place an equal emphasis upon the care and maintenance of our minds?
Do we drink of the pure milk of Scripture? Do we labor to build up our minds with the nutritious word of God? What weight do you give to the feeding of your heart and mind? The Scripture guides us to, “Set your minds on the things above, not on the things that are on earth” (Colossians 3:2). It urges, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind …” (Romans 12:2).
Does it really matter what I watch? Does it matter what I listen to? Does it matter what I read? Does it matter what I say to others? Does it matter what I say to myself? Does it really matter?
God says it does. “Do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God?” (James 4:4). What is the measuring stick you use? How do you evaluate your choices pertaining to entertainment, information, and conversation? Do you stay just one step outside the cultural norms, thinking, “At least I’m not __________,” or, “Compared to most people…”?
What is on your grocery list for your mind? What are on the nutrition labels of the conversations, diversions, and entertainments you consume? Do you take into account the long-term effect of the language you hear, the words you say, and the quiet thoughts you harbor? Does it matter what stirs my heart with emotion?
If I may, let me offer a few questions through which we can filter our choices:
- Does this choice honor God and align with His character in some way?
- Am I considering the good of someone other than me first?
- What is the purpose of my involvement in this activity?
God has promised to draw near to us as we draw near to Him (James 4:8). May He bless you as you do just that.
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