Finding Strength and Peace: Fixing our Minds on Jesus

Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.

The human mind possesses a remarkable capacity to direct its own attention. We have the ability to pause and choose what we want to think about. This power allows us to focus on specific ideas, pictures, problems, or hopes. It's a unique gift that sets us apart from animals, who are governed by impulse and instinct.

But how often do we neglect this incredible weapon in our battle against sin? The Bible repeatedly calls us to use this gift, urging us to take control of our minds and intentionally focus on certain things. It's time to dust off this powerful tool and put it to use.

In Romans 8:5–6, Paul tells us, "Those who are according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who are according to the Spirit, set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace" (my translation). This verse is truly profound. It reveals that what we set our minds on ultimately determines whether we experience life or death.

Unfortunately, many of us have become passive in our pursuit of change, wholeness, and peace. In our therapeutic age, we've fallen into the mindset of simply talking through our problems or analyzing our issues. We may even try to trace the roots of our brokenness back to our family of origin. While these approaches have their place, the New Testament presents a more proactive, non-passive approach to change: setting our minds on the right things.

Colossians 3:2 instructs us to "Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth." Our emotions are greatly influenced by what we choose to focus on. Jesus Himself teaches us to overcome anxiety by considering the world around us. He tells us to "Consider the ravens" and "Consider the lilies" (Luke 12:24, 27).

Our minds serve as windows to our hearts. If we constantly dwell on negative thoughts and darkness, our hearts will inevitably feel dark. However, if we open the window of our minds to the light, our hearts will experience the light.

But above all, the incredible capacity of our minds to focus and consider is meant for one primary purpose: considering Jesus. Hebrews 12:3 urges us to "Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted."

When we fix our minds on Jesus, we gain a fresh perspective on our own struggles. We are reminded of the incredible endurance Jesus displayed in the face of hostility and suffering. He endured unimaginable pain and opposition from sinners, yet He did not grow weary or fainthearted. His example serves as an inspiration for us to persevere in our own battles against sin.

By considering Jesus, we find the strength to press on. We are reminded that our struggles are not in vain, but rather part of a greater plan. When we fix our minds on Him, our weariness and faintheartedness dissipate, and we are infused with new life and peace.

In conclusion, let's not underestimate the power of our minds. We have the ability to direct our attention and choose what we focus on. By setting our minds on the things above, on the Spirit, and ultimately on Jesus, we can experience true life and peace. So, let's actively use this incredible gift and fix our minds on the One who endured for us, so that we may not grow weary or fainthearted.