Free Download: 25 recommended resources on spiritual growth and discipleship“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2)For the longest time, we have interpreted this verse as meaning that reading the Bible transforms the way we think. While this is true, new research shows that there is more to it than that.Author Mark Batterson explains it this way: the National Institute of Mental Health did a fascinating study asking subjects to perform a simple motor task—a finger-tapping exercise. As subjects tapped, the doctors conducted an MRI to identify what part of the brain was being activated. The subjects then practiced the finger-tapping exercise daily for four weeks. At the end of the four-week period, the brain scan was repeated. In each instance, it revealed that the area of the brain involved in the task had expanded. That simple task—finger-tapping exercise—literally created new neural pathways.When we meditate on Scripture, we are recruiting new neural pathways Our brains are rewired in alignment with the Word, and we develop the mind of Christ.In Joshua chapter one and Psalm chapter one God promises blessing and success for those who mediate on His Word.  The Scriptures teach meditation that actively engages the mind for the purpose of understanding God’s Word and putting it into practice.We meditate on God’s Word by memorizing it, by think about it, by reflecting on what it means, and asking God to help us apply it to our lives.In Psalm 1 David said, Blessed are those whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.” How do we get to the place where God’s Word becomes a delight to us?  We have to develop an appetite. “and who meditates on his law day and night.”  The blessed man reflects on the word of God. He does not just hear it and forget it, he thinks about it.  The goal is to fill your mind with the word of God. This can be done by carefully thinking about each word and phrase, and asking “how does this apply to me?” and praying it back to the Lord.“That person is like a tree planted by streams of water.” A tree by a river has a continual source of water. It will never wither away, because it is always getting what it needs.  This would also be a tree that is strong and stable, sinking down deep roots. The life of the blessed man is marked by strength and stability. “Who yields fruit in season” David is telling us that the blessed life is a life that bears fruit…it prospers…it has an impact on others.  “and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.”  Brown, dead, withered leaves are signs of death and dryness. The blessed man does not have these signs of death and dryness; his “leaves” are green and alive.So how do we do this?  You might be thinking who has time to sit around and think about the Bible all day and all night?• Select a scripture passage.  What do I need to focus on?  What verses has God led me to?  What am I struggling with?• Memorize a key verse or two• Think about it throughout the day.  Break it down word for word.  Pray about it.  Ask, what is God saying to me?  How can I apply this to my life.• Share it with someone else.  Talk about it.  Have a discussion.Today’s Challenge: Choose a verse that is appropriate for where you are in life right now. Memorize it. Let it be your verse for the week. Meditate on it. Think about it through the day. Start and end the day with your verse. Let God’s Word transform your thinking and your life.

Ver todos los episodios