Fast Day 9: Renewal

Sunrise is the herald of a new day.

A day to freshly experience His compassion and faithfulness (Lamentations 3:22-23).

Another day of life to experience His renewed physical creation.

And a brand-new day to acknowledge His spiritual re-creation in us (2 Corinthians 5:17).

And do not be conformed to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Romans 12: 2

Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or worthy of praise — think about these things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard and seen in me, put it into practice. Then the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4: 8-9

Spiritual growth and spiritual maturity are deepened through the practice of renewing your mind and positive spiritual affirmation found in the Bible. It is a process of consistent learning and applying new thoughts to your life. A commitment to fast is a commitment to setting some time aside for growth and change.

The idea of transformation can be likened to the story of a caterpillar’s metamorphosis into a butterfly: A family found two shiny chrysalises and watched as a beautiful butterfly emerged from one of them. The process looked so difficult that for the second chrysalis, they made a small cut so that it would be easier for it to emerge. But without the effort of change, the second butterfly did not survive.

Change is difficult, but it is meant to be hard-won. The effort makes changes in habits and actions possible. Although it’s not easy, changing the things we do and don’t do might feel like a piece of cake compared to changing the fundamental way we think and feel. But we have a headstart on that, since we are now a new creation. The Spirit of Christ is within us.

What might we actually do to begin to renew our minds?

The verses above from Philippians are my New Testament life verses which have been a foundation for my own growth. They describe a great way for you to start.

Positive. Think positive thoughts. Construct affirming statements you can consistently review that relate to your struggles. Not just, “I am disciplined.” But, “I consistently choose to give up sweets so that I may better fuel my body to serve Him with joy.” Hebrews 12:11-13. (Identifying a Scripture that confirms this thought ensures a biblical affirmation.)

Practice. The latest neuro studies by Caroline Leaf say you need 63 days to change a habit or a thought process. Put your new practice on your calendar in the best time slot, for each one of the 63 days. Maybe a small plan could look something like this: I will write down a supportive Bible verse each day in my journal (or cut and paste them into my electronic calendar). Maybe you could commit to extend your fast for 33 more days to reach for 63 days and a stronger habit in your life?

Peace. Relax. The results are His to enact. Enjoy the feeling of knowing you are on your way and you are moving forward. Renewal is sure.

Holy Spirit, empower me to follow through with Your fast and Your plan for renewing my mind. Envelop me with Your peace. Change me for Your use. Amen.