Ian & Jocelyn Barker

Our world is filled with things that we can think about and fixate our minds upon. We live in the information age where knowledge is increasing at a blinding rate. In light of the wealth of information, Paul warns us that we are to think about those things that are worthy and pure. Doing so will move us into the peace of God.

In Romans, Paul writes, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect” (Rom. 12:2). There is a power in the mind that we don’t really understand. I believe it is like the rudder of the ship, in that it directs the way and direction of our life. Thinking about things that are false, impure, and dark will only lead to an increase of impurity and darkness in our life. In many ways, dwelling on something is the same thing as beholding it. What we behold or focus is, we end up becoming (2 Cor. 3:18).

Paul exhorts them to practice those things that Paul has taught them and has shown them by example. If they do, the peace of God will be with them. The peace of God is only experienced by those who draw near to Him through holiness. It is interesting that verse 7 says that the peace of God will guard our minds. But verses 8-9 show that obedience and holy thought brings us into the peace of God. By practicing holiness, His grace is extended towards us in order to walk in a greater level of obedience and purity of thought.