Prepare Your Mind

“So prepare your minds for action and exercise self-control. Put all your hope in the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world.” 1 Peter 1:13 NLT

In a story titled “Watch: Local runner, wife recall cardiac arrest during road race” published yesterday, Tony Parker talked about the morning back in March 2021 that he was scheduled to run the Greenville half marathon, but backed down to the 5K after his knee started bothering him which gave him the chance to run with his wife, Delia. It turned out to be a life-saving choice. “If it weren’t for Delia and the fact that she knows CPR, I wouldn’t be here today,” Parker said. “And if it weren’t for the city of Greenville and the rescue paramedic squads with their AED (automated external defibrillator), I wouldn’t be here today.” He said he remembers running ahead of his group, including his wife, in the last stretch of the run since his knee was feeling better than anticipated. He patted a young runner on the back to encourage them and then he collapsed. Thankfully, Tony made a complete recovery because of the quick action of his wife and is back to running, walking and biking as often as he can. 

And you know, when it comes to taking action, the Bible tells us that we are to prepare our minds for action and to exercise self-control. This means that are to gird-up our minds so that we are ready for every eventuality or trial that may threaten to overtake us in our Christian walk. We are to gather up our thoughts, guard our thinking, and not permit our minds to wander from the truth of God's Word — knowing that a girded or prepared mind is one that is ready for action and not easily influenced or swayed by the ungodly mind-set of those around us, nor is unsettled by any unbiblical and hostile worldview.

So put all your hope in Jesus my friend, as you long for His glorious appearing. But remember to stay sober, alert, and girded up so that you will be found faithful when He returns. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we must guard our hearts and our minds as we patiently wait for your return knowing that the enemy will do all that he can to lead us astray. Help us to be ready for whatever comes our way by reading our Bibles diligently and filling our minds with truth. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!