Once we transform our minds, our actions must also change. Jesus taught that a person’s heart dictates (controls) their behavior.
If our heart is right, right actions will naturally follow. A godly life is the direct result of a mind cleansed by God and consecrated (set apart for holy use) to Him.
Setting Our Minds on Things Above
When we focus on heavenly things rather than worldly things, our behavior will change. In Colossians 3:5-17, the apostle Paul describes this life-changing transformation.
He compares it to taking off old, dirty clothes and putting on clean, new ones:
| Put Off / Put to Death (The Old Man) | Put On (The New Man) |
|---|---|
| Fornication (sexual immorality) | Holiness (living set apart for God) |
| Uncleanness and evil passion | Tender mercies and kindness |
| Covetousness (greed) | Humbleness of mind |
| Anger, wrath, and malice (desire to harm) | Meekness (gentleness or quiet strength) |
| Blasphemy (insulting speech) | Longsuffering (patience) |
| Filthy language and lying | Bearing with and forgiving one another |
| Made in the image of the world | Made in the image of the Creator |
A New Way of Treating Others
As Paul illustrates, the “new man” treats other people differently.
- He seeks to build others up, not tear them down.
- He speaks words of life, not evil.
- He is longsuffering (patient), not impatient.
Our actions toward others change because our attitude toward them has changed. God commands us to serve others as a way of serving Him. We must transform from self-centered individuals into selfless servants. Just like Jesus, we must seek to serve rather than be served.
Private Reflection Journal
What is one thing from this study that you can apply to your life today? Jot down your thoughts below.