Picture Scripture: Week 5 Body (the Head/the mind)
Monday, October 1st
Picture: Body (the Head/the mind)
Scripture: Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:16-18; Romans 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 2:16.
Journal any phrases or words that speak to you while reading the selcted scriptures.
Post: The mind is defined as elements in an individual that feel, perceive, think, will, and especially reason. When we break that down, it says much. The mind is the seat of the intellect. The human mind controls most bodily functions. It is the basis of intelligence, creativity, and management of life's processes. It's where everything starts. The same mind that tells our bodies how to breath and blink finds cures to deadly diseases, creates beautiful artwork or music that moves our emotions, and invents handheld devices that literally bring a world of knowledge to our fingertips. When we add our will ,which is controlled by our minds, we are capable of making any type of choice. it's rather "mind- blowing" (HA) to think of all the things our minds are capable of .
The head as defined by the dictionary is the upper part of the human body separated from the rest of the body by the neck containing the brain, mouth and sense organs. The head is so important to the body that if it were severed, nothing else would continue to work- AT ALL! Head is also defined as being in the leading position- in front, first, in charge. Now, think about the knowledge and power of any king or president over his country and people. He is the head of state, but given each person has their own mind, it's their choice to follow his rule or to rebel. Likewise, Christ has sovereign control over each of His children individually and also His church collectively; however gives each one of us a free will to make decisions to obey or disobey His loved- based rulership. One of the points I love in the Ephesians section from today's reading is that we are assured Jesus has won final victory and is in control of everything. We need not fear any dictator or nation, or even death or Satan himself. Jesus, the Head and the perfect Ruler implores us to transform our minds to think like Him, and as a result, behave like Him.
When you make decisions , both big and small, do you take it to the Lord your Ruler in prayer? Think about a time in which you did or did not take this route. How did that look for you? Think about time when you have chosen to obey and to disobey. No judgement- we all have disobeyed because we are human. I think it's necessary to look at our lives objectively to see what works well, what does not work well, and why that is. It's part of being aware and taking steps towards living intentionally seeking God's will and obeying. The times I am able to seek Him and allow Him to lead- even when its painful, the outcome is far better. After all, He knows everything past, present ,snd future. Why would I ever want to follow a different leader?
Heavenly Father, We come to You today with grateful hearts that this life is not all up to us. What a beautiful gift you give us with minds that work so intricately. How gracious a Creator You are that You give us free will to live anyway we please. As we thank You for this gift we ask that You guide us to use our minds and wills responsibly. We come humbly before You and admit we often are like spoiled little children that want it all our way. Please lead us to a place where we desire to submit to You to groom and grow us. Help us to recognize our need for you to guide us individually as well as corporately . May the choices we make be glorifying to You each day of our lives. Amen.
