Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” God tells us that we must continually be renewed in our minds. This renewing of our mind happens when we fix our minds on God and His Word. We must fear Him and keep our minds fixed on things that are good and pleasing to Him.

In Part 1 of this series, we saw what self-control is. Now, I would like to point out three areas in our lives where we must practice self-control.

We Must Practice Self-Control in Our Thinking

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. – Philippians 4:8

The mind is our control panel. We have good thoughts and bad thoughts. Believers will even allow their minds to go to places that their actions would never go. They think that since no one can see them, that it is okay to think sinful thoughts. However, we must remember that God sees and knows every thought you have ever had. He knows our sinful thoughts and the battles that we face in our mind.

Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” God tells us that we must continually be renewed in our minds. This renewing of our mind happens when we fix our minds on God and His Word. We must fear Him and keep our minds fixed on things that are good and pleasing to Him.

If you grew up in the church, you probably sang the lyrics, “be careful little eyes what you see. . . be careful little ears what you hear. . . there’s a Father up above and He’s looking down in love.” This song gives a practical way that you can practice self-control over your thoughts. We must guard our eyes in what we watch and our ears in what we listen to. The things that you meditate on will be things that you regularly think about.

Read More