“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
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We all have seen the infamous replays of scoring a basket for the wrong team, kicking a goal in the opponent’s net or having the baseball hit an outfielder’s head and bounce over the fence for a home run. These moments are called bloopers and they make us laugh.
However, there is no laughter when a player makes a mental mistake that results in his team losing a game. Calling a timeout at the end of a championship game only to find out you didn’t have any left. Dribbling the ball and letting the clock run out at the end of the game because you forgot it was a tie game. Those mental mistakes are not funny.
Mental mistakes are different than bloopers in sports, and in the real game of life they have serious consequences. The Bible is very clear that the mind is where spiritual battles are won or lost. Commands such as “renew your mind (Romans 12:2),” “set your mind on the things above (Colossians 3:2),” and “think on these things (Philippians 4:8)” are keys to experiencing victory in the Christian life. Not allowing your mind to wander or drift into ungodly thoughts requires discipline and is vital for spiritual growth.
Every coach reminds their players to keep their head in the game. Well, the Coach of the Universe is telling those who believe in His Son Jesus Christ the exact same thing. How will you take action?
— Sam Johnson, San Antonio Spurs chaplain
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