think true thoughts
Surrendering the Old Self
Please open your Bible to Ephesians 4:17-24.
Paul urges the Ephesians not to live like the Gentiles “in the futility of their minds” (v.17). He’s not condemning them—he’s calling them higher. Our transformation begins in the mind. What we believe shapes how we behave. Hurt often clouds our thinking, but healing renews our perspective.
Verses 18–19 describe the old condition: darkened understanding, hardened hearts, spiritual numbness. Maybe you know this place—where pain led you to shut down or act out.
Verses 20–24 shift our focus: you were taught to put off the old self. This is ongoing, not one-and-done. Each day we are invited to lay down old lies and put on truth. “Be renewed in the spirit of your mind” (v.23). You are now clothed in righteousness and holiness. Not shame. Not despair. Jesus is making you new from the inside out.
We no longer have to live in our old mindsets. With the Holy Spirit, we are able to access new mindsets. Our new mindsets will lead to Holy Spirit led actions. We do not have to live in our anxiety, depression, lust or harmful thoughts. We are able to live with a pure mind. We did not give ourselves purity. We cannot earn our purity. Only Jesus can wash us clean again. He can make our minds pure and clean again.
In your journal, reflect on these questions.
What old lies and thoughts do I carry in my mind?
Where/when do I feel stuck in old patterns?
What truth is God inviting me to remind myself of today?
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