Minds Set in Concrete

Things have been rumbling through my mind, Father. You know what they are, and we will work through them together. But may tonight be what You need it to be to reach those who need Your word for such a time as this. Amen.

Romans 8:7-8 (<<click here to read the passage)

Think for a moment. Do you know anyone who is stubborn, or maybe, better yet, is set in their ways? Certain personalities are not going to budge. If their minds are fixed on something, even though it may not make a whole lot of sense, they are not going to even begin to accept another mindset. They believe what they believe and that’s that.

More than likely someone (or maybe someones!) popped right away into your mind – family, friends, acquaintances, fellow workers, and on and on.

Unless they make the decision to change how they do something, it probably isn’t going to happen.

There are times when we grow increasingly concerned when people around us resist any attempt to hear anything about God or anything about our relationship with Him. That’s the way it is, and we can try to break down that barrier repeatedly, but we’re not going to change their mind! Fighting against them might even cause them to reinforce that barrier!

This is what Paul has to say in verses 7-8. The Amplified Bible translation helps me to think it through more thoroughly.

…the mind of the flesh [with its sinful pursuits] is actively hostile to God. It does not submit itself to God’s law, since it cannot, and those who are in the flesh [living a life that caters to sinful appetites and impulses] cannot please God.

First of all, don’t give up! Yes, they may be adamant in their opposition to anything of God. It’s not just a matter of refusing to submit, it is more a matter of not being able to submit. Their sinful pursuits, appetites, and impulses all stop them from going down that path, much less taking off on a journey of life following Christ.

Secondly, and by no means is it of less importance, pray for them! The Holy Spirit is the only One that can break through that barrier. He alone can squeeze through the cracks of their minds and hearts, where He will begin to soften up minds set in concrete.

Thirdly, don’t just sit back and do nothing – love them! Actively, genuinely love them! And there is no pretense allowed! You might have to pray for yourself on this one! Love them unconditionally, with no strings attached. Love until it hurts. Don’t bristle at being taken advantage of, or of having your kindnesses rebuffed or even thrown back in your face. Love as Jesus loves them. He will help you, just ask!

God is still very much a God of miracles! An old Don Moen worship song (written in 1992) goes,

God will make a way
Where there seems to be no way
He works in ways we cannot see
He will make a way for me

I think Moen was directing it more to God making a way for us individually, but I think also that it is very applicable in our thoughts, actions, and prayers for others who need to know Him.

Lord Jesus, use us to reach others for You. Amen.

Feb 14^th, 2023, Tues, 6:40 pm