Proverbs 23:7 (KJV) “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he ...”
The immediate context of our Scriptural text is a warning about eating with a stingy or two-faced person. However, the text reveals the principle “that a person’s thoughts reveal their real identity.” The true identity of a man is seen in what he really thinks inside. So, our inner thoughts and motives define our true character. The purpose of this teaching is to lead us to examine our thoughts or thinking pattern. Examine your mindset; it is the determinant of your personality. Our mindset affects our relationships, finances, spiritual life, and overall success; it shapes our destiny.
Now, let’s talk a bit about “mindset.” A mindset is the internal lens through which we see life. It is the set of beliefs, attitudes, and thought patterns that influence how we interpret situations, make decisions, and respond to challenges. Two people can face the same situation but see it differently because of mindset. In simple words, “mindset equals the way our mind is set.” Just like a clock can be set to a particular time, our minds can be set to think in a certain direction – positive or negative.
After salvation, the spirit of a man is saved instantly, but the mind must be renewed continuously because “wrong thinking leads to wrong living.” The mind is influenced by culture, environment, experiences, relationships, background, etc. So, the Bible tells us to be “transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Rom. 12:2; KJV). We are changed (transformed) from glory to glory as our minds are renewed through the Word of God. In renewing our minds through God’s word, we replace Satanic lies with divine truths; we reshape our thinking according to God’s Word. Your life cannot change until your mind changes.
Written by: Andrew A. Esemudje