Since spring 2020, many things have gone virtual. They tell you to wear pants, even if you’re only on camera from the chest up. It concerns me that people may be on camera without pants.
Specifically, I recently read that if you’re interviewing for a new job virtually, you need to dress as though you’re there in person. The reason is that it helps you feel mentally ready for the task at hand.
The Apostle Peter was someone who was ready to act & respond. He often did so without thinking. In fact, he likely had his sword by his side, ready to be wielded at a moment’s notice (John 18:10).
But his epistles read a little differently; he’s older, more seasoned and mature. In 1 Peter chapter 1, he talks about having your mind ready for action. In the original Greek he’s referencing ‘girding up the loins of your mind’. And girding up your loins was a physical process that men at the time did with their clothes to prepare them for battle.
What an interesting change for Peter!
He goes from cutting off a guy’s ear to talking about preparing your MIND for battle!
He then recommends that we be SOBER MINDED . . . clear headed. Not compromised mentally but rather attuned to each moment at hand & focused on the present.
Alongside that thought, he tells us we cannot be conformed to the passions of our former ignorance. In other words, now that you know the truth of God’s grace & mercy, you can no longer be subject to your flesh.
So, let’s recap.
If you want your behavior to reflect what you now know & not be conformed to the passions of your flesh, you start with your mind.
You prepare for battle in this fallen world by setting your mind right. By being clear headed & sober minded.
THAT’S how you live in this world.
THAT’S how you live in a world filled with sex & lust.
THAT’S how you stay away from pornography.
Set your mind.
Tomorrow . . . we see what Paul has to say about this.
Thoughts to Pray/Journal:
- What does sober minded look like to you?
- How can you stay sober minded/clear headed throughout your day? What about during times of temptation?
Reading: