Extreme Makeover: Home Edition

I read a great devotion today about renewing our minds... I used to think renewing my mind was some magical thing that happened. Poof! Presto! New mind! Now I realize... Not so much...Scripture commands renewal and this author helped me to see it in a new light...

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2

This particular devotion likened renewing our minds to moving to a new home. Our old home before we met Jesus is full of self....but the Lord offers us a new home full of the spirit if we CHOOSE to move there. Since we can't afford to buy a house right now... This really spoke to me because this new house given by Jesus is FREE! We must believe that He bought it for us every moment of every day so we aren't looking back at our old house wondering if we made the right move. Renew your mind by packing your bags and taking up residence in your new home. Where there was once anger hanging in every frame, replace it with a calm perspective. Renew. Where the drapes once hung with envy, take them down and replace them with appreciation and excitement for others giftings.... Here are some more thoughts I wrote after reading the devotion today.....

I am renewing my mind by realizing I haved moved houses. I no longer live in the house of fear, jealousy, laziness, discontentment, bitterness, unforgiveness, overeating, unrealistic expectation, comparison, anger and feeling sorry for myself.

I have moved into a house of peace, joy, high fives, contentment, unselfishness, hugs, self-control, smiles, service to others, unconditional love, creativity, exercise, prayer, thankfulness and determination.

Each day I will create new paths to my house by taking one step at a time. Moving is not easy. Remember why we usually move in the first place... Our old house wasn't working anymore. My selfish house just isn't working. I know somedays there will be all sorts of bad weather that might cause me to not take the path, but I will slow down, take my time and be patient and forgiving of myself. I might be tempted to have buyers remorse or feel like I will NEVER settle into my new home. But, I believe I live in a new home. It was bought for me by Jesus. The closing costs are my daily choices. It will take me a lifetime to settle in, but a lifetime is what I have. I am renewed.