Transforming Your Mind: Practical Lessons From a Dog Walk

“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.”

Romans 12:2

Dear Friends,

The Bible often describes the world as a system of beliefs opposed to God. Wrong beliefs lead to wrong thoughts, and wrong thoughts lead to wrong actions. As God’s children, we are called to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Yet many times, we become tangled up in the world’s ways and can’t seem to break free. The answer is not to struggle harder but to slow down and allow God to do the work of transforming your mind.

Recently, God reminded me of this truth in an unexpected way while I was dog-sitting for my daughter, Emily.

A Lesson From Rudy the Dog

Each day, as I leashed up Rudy for a walk, his excitement made him run ahead until his back legs tangled in the strap. But the bigger issue came when I tried to free him – he resisted my help and fought against me. Only when he tired out and allowed me to intervene could I release him. Once free, he bounded off joyfully to explore the sights and smells of the neighborhood.

Watching Rudy struggle reminded me of myself. I often get entangled in confusing thoughts. Wrong beliefs about myself or my circumstances stir up emotions until my mind feels like a bowl of tangled spaghetti. The world’s methods of coping with stress and confusion tempt me, but the harder I struggle to sort out my messy thoughts, the more frustrated I become.

Just like Rudy, I need to stop fighting, calm down, and let God untangle the knots in my mind and heart. He is the One Who must do the work of transforming my mind. 

God’s Gentle Intervention

One walk in particular brought this lesson home. As Rudy trotted happily, my phone suddenly lost connection, cutting off the podcast I was using to “clear my head.” At first, I was frustrated, but then I realized God was using this moment to remind me that true peace doesn’t come from constant noise or distraction.

Instead, I walked in silence – watching Rudy explore, feeling the warmth of the sun, taking in the beauty of creation – and in that stillness, God restored my soul. He gently transformed my anxious mind into a peaceful, attentive heart.

Why Transforming Your Mind Is Essential

This small but powerful experience reminded me that God’s children continually need renewal. We live in a world full of lies and half-truths that can easily capture our thoughts and shape our actions. That’s why it’s essential to regularly read and study Scripture, asking God to shine His light on our path.

God’s Word is living and active, sharper than a two-edged sword. It pierces into the soul, discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. As we meditate on His truth, He reveals the places where we are still conformed to the world’s ways. Little by little, He transforms us – proving that His will is always good, acceptable, and perfect.

A Call to Transformation

If you find yourself entangled in the world’s lies, believing falsehoods, letting emotions rule your actions, or feeling weighed down by confusion, take a lesson from Rudy. Stop struggling, slow down, and let God’s Word do the work of transforming your mind.

Don’t be conformed to this world. Be transformed by renewing your mind. His truth will untangle the mess and set you free.

Love,

Mama

I’d love to hear from you! How has God been teaching you about transforming your mind? Share your thoughts in the comments, or feel free to reach out to me directly at [email protected]. Let’s encourage one another on this journey of transformation.