“But the Jews who refused to believe stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers.”
Acts 14:2
I was having a friendly discussion with a shop owner which eventually led him to ask, “How did we ever get to this place where there is so much anger and hatred in the world?” The daily news accounts regularly show us how yet another person’s mind was poisoned against someone else.
Paul writes, “The Spirit clearly says that in the later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons” (1 Timothy 4:1). And again, “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days” (2 Timothy 3:1). Jesus said, “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first…They hated me without reason” (John 15:18, 25). The evil we see in our world is nothing new.
Paul’s teaching compels us to “not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). How do we do that? First, confess to God the ways you have given in to evil. And second, commit to refilling your mind with God Himself through Scripture reading, prayer, worship, and fellowship.
Paul writes, “The Spirit clearly says that in the later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons” (1 Timothy 4:1). And again, “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days” (2 Timothy 3:1). Jesus said, “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first…They hated me without reason” (John 15:18, 25). The evil we see in our world is nothing new.
Paul’s teaching compels us to “not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). How do we do that? First, confess to God the ways you have given in to evil. And second, commit to refilling your mind with God Himself through Scripture reading, prayer, worship, and fellowship.
Scripture Focus
Acts 14:1-7
Insight
When God’s grace washes over you, you are focused anew on Him and His purposes for your life. Let His grace rain down on you!
Bible In A Year
- 2 Samuel 17-18
- Psalm 144
- 1 Thessalonians 5
