Lessons on Ahaziah (3)—The Necessity for the Renewal of Our Minds - All The LORD is near Daily Devotionals for 2024

But it was ordained by God that the downfall of Ahaziah should come about through his going to visit Joram.
2 Chronicles 22:7

Lessons on Ahaziah (3)—The Necessity for the Renewal of Our Minds
From whom did Ahaziah receive the counsel to go up with Joram? It was from the house of Ahab (2 Chr. 22:5), not from God. And what was the result of it? It was to his complete loss!

In the world in which we live today there are lots of bad influences. Actually, the apostle John wrote that "the whole world lies in the power of the evil one" (1 Jn. 5:19). This has a practical consequence: if I am not careful, it will influence my thoughts, my affections, and my actions. But not only do we need to be careful, we also must take positive steps to combat these snares and evil influences. But how can we do that? Well, the Word of God gives us the starting point in Romans 12:2: "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." We have to be actively renewed in our minds, in our way of thinking. Without even realizing it I am already influenced by what surrounds me, and the culture in which I live. It is only by the renewal of my mind that I can discern not only that which is evil, but that which is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

What are the means by which my mind can be renewed? Well, they are very simple, yet absolutely necessary. The first is reading the Word of God, and being entirely occupied with it (1 Tim. 4:13, 15). The second is taking time in prayer in the presence of God (Col. 4:2). This will influence our whole attitude toward what surrounds us. Another means is to be with other children of God, not only for social activities, but also to read the Word and pray together, and to encourage and help each other (Heb. 10:24-25).

We tend to neglect simple things, so let us take it to heart this very day, and work at the renewal of our minds!

Alexandre Leclerc