The Mind of Christ

“But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.” (John 14:26 NLT)

Ever have one of those seasons where the Lord seems to be highlighting a Scripture over and over? When God in His creativity causes you to repeatedly “notice” that Scripture as you are going through everyday life? Maybe you hear it in different songs or teachings, see it on something in the mail, notice it as you are scrolling on social media, hear a loved one mention it, etc. Our Father is unendingly creative in the ways He is committed to getting our attention!  

I’ve personally had many of these seasons where God creatively and mercifully reminds me of specific Scriptures He wants me to focus on. 

“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” (John 14:27)

It had been a season of many responsibilities and God was teaching me not to allow my heart or mind to become frazzled. In addition to quiet time with the Lord, I was being drawn to this Scripture (John 14:27) in so many ways. One morning on the way to work, I even ended up behind a transportation vehicle with a back window sticker that said Peace of Mind Transportation and had two doves representing the Holy Spirit. You can’t make this stuff up! My drive to work was close to an hour, so I had plenty of time to meditate on that verse. 

Having grown up in Pentecostal circles, I was used to viewing the Holy Spirit as the One who empowers and comforts. However, I didn’t always recognize Him as our Teacher who leads us into all truth and reminds us of God’s promises. It’s the Holy Spirit who gives us supernatural understanding and renews our minds through His Word (see Romans 12:1-2).

I’m so grateful for Jesus sending us His Spirit to patiently teach us. One of the defining seasons of my life was when the Holy Spirit opened my eyes to righteousness in Christ and broke the need to try to be perfect in my own works. We all know that never leads to freedom! I’ll never forget that moment (over 25 years ago). Another breakthrough was when the Holy Spirit led me to a revival where they were focusing on God as Abba Father. Up to that point, I had always viewed God on a distant throne, indifferent to anything but our sin. Seeing Him as our true Father who is tender towards us allowed my heart to soften towards Him. 

As I read John 14, I am consistently amazed at the level of commitment Jesus showed to His disciples on the night He was going to be betrayed. He washed their feet, promised to send the Comforter, and even encouraged them not to allow their hearts to become afraid. All of this before leaving to suffer for the sins of the world. What a mighty God we serve!  

I encourage you today to reflect on things the Lord has previously spoken to you. May the Holy Spirit refresh you with the assurance that His promises towards you are just as true today.  

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Scripture is quoted from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.