Picture: Counsel #18 — The Mind and Identity CSL 28.1
The Christian journey is fundamentally about internal transformation, the development of "the mind of Christ." This isn’t just intellectually agreeing with Christian beliefs, but it’s a deep reshaping of our inner world—our thoughts, attitudes, and perspectives—to mirror those of Jesus. CSL 28.2
Paul’s words in Philippians 4:8 offer a clear guide for this mental development. He urges believers to fix their thoughts on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, admirable, and excellent. This is an active centering of our minds on things that align with God’s character and His Word, which shapes our identity. It’s a call to view the world through His eyes, to respond to situations with His grace, and to pursue God’s will with His wisdom and strength. When we actively cultivate these Christ-like thoughts, over time our identity in Christ becomes more deeply rooted, allowing us to reflect His character to the world.[35] https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=O9e-PXLRni8%2F&ab_channel=HopeLives365 CSL 28.3
“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 2:5 NKJV CSL 28.4
“Jesus desires to efface the image of the earthly from the minds of His followers, and to impress upon them the image of the heavenly, that they may become one with Himself, reflecting His character, and showing forth the praises of Him who hath called them out of darkness into His marvelous light.” Ellen White in Reflecting Christ, p. 303 CSL 28.5
Reflect: In a world full of distractions and negative influences, what strategies do you employ to guard your mind and intentionally focus on Christ-like qualities? CSL 28.6
