“Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit.”
Romans 8:5 (NLT)
Sometimes it’s easy to feel like we’re prisoners to our own thoughts, particularly when we doubt our leadership or feel overwhelmed by the expectations our congregations have for our ministry.
Maybe you’ve noticed recurring patterns of self-criticism or discouragement that distract you from your ministry.
Romans 7:23 describes this struggle: “I see a different law at work in my body—a law that fights against the law which my mind approves of. It makes me a prisoner to the law of sin which is at work in my body” (GNT).
Your old nature isn’t your friend. It often sows seeds of doubt and self-defeat. You’ll face these thoughts even as a pastor. Your sinful nature doesn’t go away when you get involved in ministry.
That’s why you need to develop the discipline of challenging those thoughts, by regularly asking, “Is this really true?”
Next time you begin to question whether you’re really making a difference, ask yourself if it’s true.
When you think no one understands your struggles, recognize that as a lie that Satan is trying to convince you of.
Then remember what you know from God’s Word to be true: “Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit” (Romans 8:5 NLT).
Challenge your thoughts today, and take comfort that the Holy Spirit is renewing your mind and strengthening you for the ministry he has called you to fulfill.
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