And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes]... Romans 12:2 (AMP)
Many Christians wonder, “If I'm saved, why do I still struggle with certain thoughts or behaviours?”
First of all, you need to understand that you are a three-part being. You are a spirit, you have a soul and you live in a body.
What many people don’t realize is that there’s a difference between “spirit salvation” and “soul salvation.” When you gave your life to Christ, your spirit instantly became a brand-new creation and came alive with the presence of God. You’re saved and going to Heaven one day!
But your soul still has its old training, learned behaviours and ways of thinking. That’s why Romans 12 tells us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Your spirit was transformed in an instant, but transforming your soul—your mind and emotions—is a process.
If you’re visiting an unfamiliar city but you have the wrong map, it doesn’t matter how much you confess in faith that you’ll find your way. You’ll stay lost and will never arrive at your destination until you get the right map. Receiving and living in the Word is the map you need to see lasting change.
As your mind is continually renewed by God’s Word, it changes the way you think, believe and feel. Your emotions, will, dreams and behaviours begin to fall in line with your spirit. Then you start to live out the good, acceptable, perfect will of God (Romans 12:2), and your soul will experience true freedom!
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