Renewed Mind Biblical Counseling

01/29/2024

The Measure of Grace

At first glance, it’s easy to misinterpret Matthew 7:1 as a pass to disregard accountability for sinful actions, a license to turn a blind eye to wrongdoing. But when we take a closer look, Jesus' words in this parable aren't an endorsement of moral indifference.

The Greek word "κρίνετε" (krinete), translated as "judge," means “to form a condemning opinion about someone without knowledge.”
Jesus isn't advocating against fair and righteous judgment (John 7:24). We know this because, in this same chapter of Matthew 7, Jesus tells His followers to judge (Matthew 7:16).

So, are we to judge, or are we not to judge?

Jesus cautions against judging others unfairly, we should instead lean on the Holy Spirit to practice good judgment.

This verse isn't a call for us to abandon discernment, though; rather, it's an invitation to wield it with compassion and understanding. It should compel Christ’s followers, even today, to reflect on the measure we use:
Are we quick to condemn or eager to discern with grace? Are our judgments tempered with empathy?

Think for a moment: Where have you been quick to condemn others without full understanding or accurate knowledge? How can you lead with compassion instead of a judgmental attitude?

12/27/2023

Trusting God through Pain

Have you ever experienced deep pain? Maybe you or someone you know received a painful diagnosis. Or perhaps you or someone you know is living with lifelong pain.

All of us experience pain, sickness, and suffering in our life. It’s part of our human experience because of the effects of sin on creation. Every single person will experience death, pain, and sickness.

However, in the midst of those things, God promises to be with us. The Psalmist gives us an incredible promise in Psalm 73:26. Even though our flesh and heart will fail, God promises to be our strength and portion forever.

That means God is working in our life to strengthen us. Scripture tells us that one day, God will make everything new (Revelation 21:5). The world will be like He intended it to be–free of pain, suffering, and death. God will restore all things.

So, while we experience pain and suffering in this life, we can have hope and look forward to the restoration of all things–especially the resurrection of our bodies. The God who created us from the inside out and knows everything about us will restore our bodies to perfection when we join Him in heaven.

Take a moment to reflect on the frailty of your earthly body. Give thanks to God for creating you and giving you life. Just like the Psalmist, ask Him to be your strength and your portion forever. Remember that He cares for you and loves you. Take hope that one day, He will restore all things, including our pain and suffering.

12/19/2023

Whether you’re experiencing the loss of a friendship, a broken dream, or a breakup—experiencing heartbreak can be confusing and challenging. In this 7-Day Bible Plan, you’ll learn how to tend to your broken heart God’s way.

12/13/2023

Come...

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or exhausted, come.
If you’re feeling grateful or expectant, come.
If you’re feeling joyful or grievous, confident or doubtful, encouraged or frustrated, come.

“Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!”
Psalm 95:6

There’s something about falling on our faces before the One who created us—and everything that exists—that reminds us of who He is and who we are not.

When was the last time you stopped—in your car, in your kitchen, in your rushing, in your humanness—to simply come to God?

When you notice a gorgeous sunset, come.
When you can’t see through your tears, come.
When you’re captivated by a child’s smile, come.
When you’re overwhelmed by bad news, come.
When you’re motivated to make an impact, come.
When you’re deflated beyond words, come.

Come to the Lord, your Maker.
He has already come to you.

12/03/2023

This is the reason for the hope I have no matter what the circumstances around me. Beautiful explanation.

In the Bible people who have hope are very different from optimists! In this video, we’ll explore how biblical hope looks to God’s character alone as a basis...

07/17/2023

The battle we’re facing isn’t new. The early Church persevered through major theological and culture conflicts, and the same struggle continues today. In thi...

07/08/2023

Dear Survivors:

06/24/2023