The Mind of Christ
The definition of purity is “freedom from anything that contaminates; freedom from guilt.” By this definition, purity in a person’s life is accomplished only by Jesus Christ. We are imperfect sinners. Through Jesus, we are cleansed from evil. In the Greek, the word purity means “chaste, physically pure, and morally blameless.” It involves thoughts, words, and actions. Our entire nature is involved. It is a heart issue as warned in Proverbs 4:23: “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life” (nlt).
We can have a cleansed heart through the cross of Jesus Christ. Confessing our sins, asking for a cleansed heart, and accepting Jesus’ forgiveness are the most important actions we can take (see 1 John 1:9). Then keeping a pure heart becomes a day-by-day journey.
God establishes purity in our hearts. We cannot maintain it alone. How does He do it? He responds to our prayer, confession of sin, and a strong desire to be obedient to Him. A daily diet of God’s Word and memorization of Scripture will keep the mind focused on Him.
God wants to give you His attitudes and perspective. Philippians 2:5 says, “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus” (nkjv). We can be so yielded to God, so in tune with the Holy Spirit, that He takes over our mind, thoughts, attitudes, and words. When Christ is in us, we can ask for His mind on all matters. When we are abiding in Him and presenting our struggles to Him we can experience oneness with Him. He will actually share His thoughts with us.
Psalm 119:9-12 asks the question we all need to ask: “How can a young man keep his way pure?” And the answer is simple: “By keeping it according to Your word. . . . Do not let me wander from Your commandments. Your Word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You” (nasb). The Bible, the Word of God, is your road map for pure living. It keeps you from wandering.
It is helpful to memorize Scripture that will help put boundaries around the areas where we are tempted. Choose some Scripture to be your plan for a godly path in the area where you personally struggle. You know yourself, so hide the words for your need in your heart.
Remember, you have been given an escape for the temptations that cross your path. First Corinthians 10:13-14 tells us that the temptations we face in life are common to everyone, but God is faithful and will not give us more than we can handle. We are promised that through the Holy Spirit, He will provide a way of escape.
Heavenly Father, thank You that Your love for me is so great that You can forgive all my sins. Thank You for Your Word, which guides me, keeps me close to You, and cleanses me. May I live my life with Your mind. Amen.
