Controlling Our Thoughts, Part 2

“So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. 14 Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.” Colossians 3:12-17

Reprogramming our minds (which influences our behavior) begins with a basic understanding of our new identity in Christ.

We are now holy people. We do not attain holiness by our behavior; we are holy and blameless in God’s sight now and forever through the shed blood of His Son. This truth guards us against legalism - striving for holiness through do’s and don’ts.

We are now accepted by Christ. We do not earn God’s approval. He loves us just the way we are - even when we sin (though we do reap the sorrowful consequences of our sin). This truth will guard us against false guilt and condemnation.
   
We are now complete in Christ. We have everything we need for life and death through the sufficiency of Jesus Christ. This truth guards us against seeking second, third, or fourth experiences. We received all of Christ at salvation. Growth comes through learning more about the ways of God and obeying Him at every turn.

Once our identity is established, our programming can proceed by the daily intake of God’s Word which declares God’s thoughts to us. God’s Word is the sole programming source for living our new life in Christ through regular study, meditation, and obedience.

“Just as He chose us in Him...that we would be holy and blameless before Him...” Ephesians 1:4