There is such a Biblical focus on our hearts (that was a main theme of Jesus) and our minds (that was the focus of the book of Philippians). I don’t know why I didn’t get this idea when we studied Philippians 4 a few months ago, or for that matter earlier in my Christian life. But, reflecting on this last week’s sermon I decided to add a new daily reflection to my prayer journal: “God, how is the condition of my heart? How are my thoughts?”
Before things express themselves in action they start in the heart and mind. Before we hurt somebody we get mad at them or hate them. Before we commit sexual immorality we lust, or sometimes even anxiety leads to this as a stress relief (temporary as it is). Before we fall away from following the Lord in actions often our love has been growing cold for the Lord for some time. Before we stop coming to church we have been developing strife and unforgiveness toward brothers in Christ. Before we lie to a friend, or quit serving, or leave our spouse, we have become selfish in our heart and mind much prior. Before we have a nervous breakdown we have long before lost our joy in the Lord. (see Matthew 5:21-48, Philippians chapters 2 and 4)
Romans 12:1-4 (NASB95)
1 Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.
2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.
3 For through the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith.
Philippians 4:6-9 (NASB95)
6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.
9 The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
Matthew 22:36-37 (NASB95)
36 “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?”
37 And He said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.”
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