Renew Your Mind
by Matt Cobb
Chances are high that if you see me in public, I’ve got my AirPods in. It’s almost a 100% chance. And if you see me in my house, there’s about a 50/50 shot that they’re in my ears even then. It drives my wife crazy, but I get a sense of comfort from it. Podcasts. Music. Audiobooks. Streaming. TV. I try to be mindful of what I’m taking in. My music is mostly clean. The podcasts I listen to are about football, baseball, basketball, or books that I love. But in a world filled with constant noise, shifting values, and ever-changing standards, it can be easy to adopt a mindset shaped by the culture of the world rather than by Christ. However, as believers, we are called to renew our minds and see life through a gospel-centered lens. Romans 12:2 reminds us, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
What Does It Mean to Renew Your Mind?
To renew your mind means to replace worldly thinking with godly wisdom. The world often promotes self-centered ambitions, temporary pleasures, and material success, but Scripture calls us to fix our eyes on things above (Colossians 3:2). The apostle Peter also reminds us of this truth: “Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:13). When we filter our thoughts, decisions, and actions through the truth of the gospel, we begin to experience transformation in how we see ourselves, others, and our circumstances.
How Can We Develop a Gospel-Centered Mindset?
Immerse Yourself in Scripture
God's Word is the ultimate source of truth. By consistently reading and meditating on Scripture, we allow His truth to shape our thoughts and guide our actions (Psalm 119:105).Pray for a Renewed Perspective
Ask God to align your thoughts with His. Prayer not only strengthens our relationship with the Lord, but also helps us view situations with His wisdom rather than our limited understanding (James 1:5).Guard Your Heart and Mind
The things we consume—whether media, conversations, or entertainment—impact our thinking. Philippians 4:8 encourages us to focus on what is “true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, and praiseworthy.” I have personal experience with this. Late to the party as usual, I started the popular TV show “Game of Thrones” several years after the finale. About 8 episodes in, I told myself that I did not need to watch this for fear of my mind straying to thoughts that were not godly. So I stopped watching that show.Surround Yourself with Godly Community
The people we spend time with will influence our perspective. Proverbs 27:17 says, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." Engaging in fellowship with other believers helps us stay accountable and encourages us to keep our focus on Christ. This is in your DNAs, MCs, Sunday gatherings, and the people whose perspectives we hold dear. This does not mean that we don’t spend intentional time with non-believers, but that we renew our mind through those who believe in Jesus so we can be a Light to those that need the Truth.Live Out the Gospel Daily
Renewing our minds isn’t just about thinking differently; it’s about living differently. When we apply biblical truths to our daily lives—whether in how we respond to challenges, treat others, or make decisions—we reflect Christ to the world. By God’s grace and through His work in our lives, this gets easier over time.
When we see life through a gospel lens, we begin to live with peace, purpose, and eternal perspective. We respond to trials with faith instead of fear, we view people with love rather than judgment, and we seek God’s kingdom over worldly gain. Meditate on these comforting words from Scripture to remind you of the need for a transformed mind:
“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” – Colossians 3:2
“As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as He who called you is Holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy.’” – 1 Peter 1:14-16
“So we do not lose heart. Though the outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.” – 2 Corinthians 4:16
One last reminder to all those beginning and already on this journey (which should be all of us as believers): this is not a sprint! Habits are not formed overnight. They are ingrained in us over time. But even the worst habit can be broken. Renewing your mind is a lifelong journey, but as you surrender your thoughts to Christ daily, you will experience the transformative power of seeing through His eyes. Let the truth of the gospel shape your heart and mind, and you will walk in the fullness of His will. So. Do not lose heart!