He likes to do x,y,z, he is certainly from such a country. We often hear this kind of remarks, concerning people coming from a similar culture.
Indeed, the culture, the education received or the environment in which one grew up instills a certain way of living and doing things. Before we were saved, we were unaware of God’s mind and will, regarding how to lead our lives. For some, God simply had no say in their decisions.
Giving our life to Christ is the beginning of a new life, we become a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). Our identity has changed. We are now children of God (John 1:12); joint heirs of Christ (Romans 8:17). We have a new spirit (Ezekiel 36:26) and are now citizens of the kingdom of God (Philippians 3:20).
We must now be recognized by a culture and a way of doing things that reflects the kingdom we belong to (Philippians 3:17). However, the thoughts of our soul do not change automatically. They have kept the reasoning of our old life and we must straighten them out in the light of the word of God.
Indeed, the Lord in his sovereignty made us guardians of the thoughts of our soul and it’s our responsability to align them to the word of God.
Romans 12:2:<< And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.>>
Thus, we no longer need to think, act and conform to the system of the world because we are now different. Old things have passed away, things have become new (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Ephesians 4:22-24:<< that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness. >>
For example, the culture of the world is an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth; while the Lord asks us in the new covenant to always forgive and even to love our enemies because vengeance belongs to him. (Luke 6:32-36).
Our responsibility is to constantly watch over the thoughts of our soul. Because our success in everything we do depends on it.
Joshua 1:8:<< This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. … and then you will have good success. >>
Dear reader, pray this prayer with me.
Lord, please give me the grace to understand and accept the importance of renewing my thoughts in order to live this abundant life that you have planned for me. May all false reasoning be overturned by the light of your word and may I be fully led by your word and the Holy spirit.
Say Amen in Jesus name!