This week's focus in our "New" Series is "The Staying Power."  We'll be looking at what it takes for us to keep growing in the NEW life Jesus gives us, what He called being "born again."  While becoming a follower of Jesus, becoming new, is a once in a life-time experience, the process of living into the new life we receive through Jesus' death on the cross and payment of the penalty for our sins, is a life-long process.  In biblical terms, the moment we become new is the moment of our "justification."  It's just as if I (or you!) never sinned.  The process of becoming like Jesus, which we'll be focusing on throughout the week is called sanctification.

The focus Scripture for this week is:  ²Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT  Some may be caught by surprise that the Apostle Paul told us it is the renewing of our MINDS that is necessary for us to keep growing in our new lives in Jesus.  Many think that Christianity is a religion of the heart (which it is!), and that we have to check our minds at the door in order to become  Christians (which we don't!).  As we'll see throughout the week, Christianity is a reasonable faith--actually it's the most reasonable faith, because it's based in history and reality. 

For today, I'd encourage you to join us at New Life (8:45 or 10:15 a.m. at the South Butler Primary School) if you live in western PA, or to read and reflect on Paul's challenge in Romans 12:2.  As you do, ask God to show you what specific areas of your mind new to be renewed by Him, areas where you need to eliminate the molding influence of the world.  Then throughout the week simply (not easily but simply!) give over control of your mind to Jesus that He may renew it and lead you in His ways.

Let's pray:  Heavenly Father, Thank You for who You are and for sending Jesus to make it possible for us to be renewed in our minds and hearts.  Fill us with the Holy Spirit that we may yield control of all that we are and have to You, that we may receive Your grace and extend Your glory.  This we pray in Jesus' name.  Amen.