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by: Rod VanWart

01/30/2025

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Lust usually refers to an insatiable hunger for pleasure, power, profit, prestige, or sex. It is a sinful craving called "fleshly lusts" (1 Peter 2:11). Healthy sexual desire is rooted in God, whereas lust is self-centered and insensitive to the needs of others. 

Matthew in 5:28 quotes Jesus, "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart." This verse is part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, where He teaches about the deeper, heart-level issues behind the commandments.

In terms of renewal, this verse highlights the importance of inner transformation. Jesus is calling for a renewal of the heart and mind, moving beyond merely following the external rules to addressing the root causes of sinful behavior. True renewal involves not just avoiding outward actions but also purifying one's thoughts and intentions.

This emphasis on inner purity and transformation aligns with the broader theme of renewal in the Christian faith, where believers are encouraged to seek a heart and mind renewed by the Holy Spirit, leading to a life that reflects God's will in both thought and action.

How do we achieve inner transformation and a renewal of heart and mind?

Achieving inner transformation and the renewal of heart and mind is an ongoing process that involves several key practices:

  1. Prayer: Regular, sincere, from your heart prayer invites God's presence and guidance into your life. Ask God to help transform your heart and mind, to align your thoughts and desires with His will. More of Him and less of me.
  2. Scripture Engagement: Consistently read, study, and meditate on the Bible. God's word has the power to renew your mind and transform your heart. Reflecting on Scripture helps you internalize its truths and apply them to your life.
  3. Confession and Repentance: Acknowledge your sins and shortcomings before God and seek His forgiveness. True repentance involves turning away from sin and making a conscious effort to change your behavior.
  4. Holy Spirit: Invite the Holy Spirit to work in your life. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in transforming and renewing your heart and mind. Yield to His leading and guidance.
  5. Fellowship and Accountability: Surround yourself with other believers who can support, encourage, and hold you accountable. Being part of a faith community provides opportunities for mutual growth and encouragement.
  6. Service and Love: Serve others and practice love in action. Helping others and showing compassion can shift your focus from yourself to others, fostering a heart of humility and generosity.
  7. Worship and Gratitude: Engage in regular worship and express gratitude to God for His blessings. Worship shifts your focus to God and cultivates a heart of thankfulness and reverence.
  8. Mindfulness and Self-Reflection: Regularly examine your thoughts and behaviors. Be mindful of negative or sinful patterns and actively work to replace them with positive, God-honoring thoughts and actions.
  9. Consistent Growth: Commit to a lifelong journey of spiritual growth. Attend church services, Bible studies, and other opportunities for learning and development.

By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you can experience a continuous process of inner transformation and renewal of your heart and mind. This journey brings you closer to God and helps you live a life that reflects His love and truth.

Stay strong and be blessed.

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Lust usually refers to an insatiable hunger for pleasure, power, profit, prestige, or sex. It is a sinful craving called "fleshly lusts" (1 Peter 2:11). Healthy sexual desire is rooted in God, whereas lust is self-centered and insensitive to the needs of others. 

Matthew in 5:28 quotes Jesus, "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart." This verse is part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, where He teaches about the deeper, heart-level issues behind the commandments.

In terms of renewal, this verse highlights the importance of inner transformation. Jesus is calling for a renewal of the heart and mind, moving beyond merely following the external rules to addressing the root causes of sinful behavior. True renewal involves not just avoiding outward actions but also purifying one's thoughts and intentions.

This emphasis on inner purity and transformation aligns with the broader theme of renewal in the Christian faith, where believers are encouraged to seek a heart and mind renewed by the Holy Spirit, leading to a life that reflects God's will in both thought and action.

How do we achieve inner transformation and a renewal of heart and mind?

Achieving inner transformation and the renewal of heart and mind is an ongoing process that involves several key practices:

  1. Prayer: Regular, sincere, from your heart prayer invites God's presence and guidance into your life. Ask God to help transform your heart and mind, to align your thoughts and desires with His will. More of Him and less of me.
  2. Scripture Engagement: Consistently read, study, and meditate on the Bible. God's word has the power to renew your mind and transform your heart. Reflecting on Scripture helps you internalize its truths and apply them to your life.
  3. Confession and Repentance: Acknowledge your sins and shortcomings before God and seek His forgiveness. True repentance involves turning away from sin and making a conscious effort to change your behavior.
  4. Holy Spirit: Invite the Holy Spirit to work in your life. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in transforming and renewing your heart and mind. Yield to His leading and guidance.
  5. Fellowship and Accountability: Surround yourself with other believers who can support, encourage, and hold you accountable. Being part of a faith community provides opportunities for mutual growth and encouragement.
  6. Service and Love: Serve others and practice love in action. Helping others and showing compassion can shift your focus from yourself to others, fostering a heart of humility and generosity.
  7. Worship and Gratitude: Engage in regular worship and express gratitude to God for His blessings. Worship shifts your focus to God and cultivates a heart of thankfulness and reverence.
  8. Mindfulness and Self-Reflection: Regularly examine your thoughts and behaviors. Be mindful of negative or sinful patterns and actively work to replace them with positive, God-honoring thoughts and actions.
  9. Consistent Growth: Commit to a lifelong journey of spiritual growth. Attend church services, Bible studies, and other opportunities for learning and development.

By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you can experience a continuous process of inner transformation and renewal of your heart and mind. This journey brings you closer to God and helps you live a life that reflects His love and truth.

Stay strong and be blessed.

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