Living and Leading with the Mind of Christ: Faith That Shapes Daily Decisions
“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” — Colossians 3:2 (NIV)
As we come to the final article in the series Developing the Mind of Christ: A Journey of Renewal and Transformation, it’s helpful to pause and reflect on where we’ve been. We began by recognizing the mind as a battlefield, then explored how God’s Word renews our thinking through truth. Last week, we leaned into humility, obedience, and surrender as essential to forming the mind of Christ. Now, we turn to the natural outcome of all that inner work: how a renewed mind shapes the way we live, lead, and grow every day.
The mind of Christ was never meant to stay hidden in private devotion alone; it was designed to be lived out, quietly influencing decisions, relationships, leadership, and purpose.
A Renewed Mind Produces a Visible Life
When Scripture calls us to “set our minds on things above,” it is not asking us to disengage from real life. Instead, it invites us to live from a higher reference point. Our priorities shift. Our reactions soften. Our decisions gain clarity.
“Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above… Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” — Colossians 3:1–2 (NIV)
Paul was writing to believers learning how to follow Christ in ordinary, demanding circumstances. His encouragement was deeply practical: when our thinking is anchored in Christ, our lives begin to reflect His values in tangible ways. A renewed mind shows up not only in what we believe, but in how we respond under pressure.
Faith That Informs Daily Decisions
One of the clearest signs of the mind of Christ is discernment. Instead of reacting impulsively or relying solely on logic, we begin to ask different questions: What aligns with God’s character? What reflects trust rather than fear?
“In all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” — Proverbs 3:6 (NIV)
This kind of submission is not passive. It is thoughtful, intentional, and faith-filled. Whether we are navigating career choices, relationships, or seasons of uncertainty, the renewed mind learns to bring God into everyday decisions rather than consulting Him only in crisis.
Over time, faith becomes less compartmentalized and more integrated, shaping both spiritual and practical choices.
Leadership Through the Lens of Christ
Leadership is one of the most visible places where mindset matters. The world often defines leadership by authority, influence, and recognition. Jesus redefined it entirely.
“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” — Matthew 20:26 (NIV)
Jesus spoke these words to disciples who were still measuring greatness by status. His response revealed the heart of Christ-centered leadership: influence rooted in service, not self-promotion. The mind of Christ leads with integrity, listens with humility, and serves without needing applause.
This applies far beyond formal leadership roles. Whether leading a team, a family, or simply influencing others through presence and character, a renewed mind produces leadership that is steady, compassionate, and trustworthy.
Growth Without Striving
One of the quiet gifts of the mind of Christ is freedom from constant striving. Growth continues, but it is no longer driven by comparison or fear of falling behind.
“Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” — Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)
This image of perseverance reminds us that spiritual growth is not a sprint. The renewed mind understands that faithfulness over time matters more than speed or visibility. We begin to measure progress by alignment with God’s will rather than external success.
This mindset brings rest, not because effort disappears, but because effort is no longer fueled by anxiety.
Living with Purpose and Peace
When thinking is renewed, purpose becomes clearer. Not because every question is answered, but because our trust deepens. The mind of Christ learns to hold responsibility and peace at the same time.
Living this way does not mean life becomes easy. It means we are no longer ruled by urgency, comparison, or fear. Instead, we walk forward with confidence rooted in God’s presence.
The renewed mind does not eliminate challenges; it reframes them.
A Practice for This Week
As this series concludes, choose one area of daily life: work, relationships, or decision-making—and intentionally invite God into your thinking there. Pause before responding. Ask what reflects trust, humility, and love. Then take one step that aligns with the mind of Christ.
Small choices, repeated consistently, shape a transformed life.
As the Journey Continues
This series may be concluding, but the formation of the mind of Christ is ongoing. Renewed thinking continues to deepen as we walk closely with God, remain rooted in His Word, and practice daily surrender.
In the weeks ahead, we’ll build on these themes—exploring how faith integrates with growth, purpose, and everyday leadership. If this series has encouraged you, consider subscribing to the EXCEL2FAITH Newsletter, where faith, growth, and purpose continue to intersect in meaningful, practical ways.
Transformation does not end here; it simply becomes lived.
Winning the War in Your Mind
Throughout this month-long series on Developing the Mind of Christ, we’ve consistently pointed readers back to Winning the War in Your Mind—and with good reason. As we conclude with Living and Leading with the Mind of Christ, this book continues to stand out as a powerful companion for anyone seeking faith that truly shapes daily decisions, leadership, and purpose.
In this book, Craig Groeschel clearly and compassionately explains that our lives often move in the direction of our strongest thoughts. He invites readers to identify thought patterns driven by fear, pride, or control and replace them with God’s truth. That message aligns seamlessly with this final article’s focus on living out renewed thinking—where faith moves from private belief into visible action.
Rather than offering quick fixes, Groeschel emphasizes consistent, truth-centered practices that reshape how we think, choose, and lead. His writing reinforces what this article highlights: a renewed mind produces clarity under pressure, humility in leadership, and peace in everyday responsibilities. The book reminds us that surrendering our thoughts to Christ isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom.
As we close this series, Winning the War in Your Mind remains a trusted recommendation for continued growth. Consider purchasing the book as a next step, and be sure to subscribe to The EXCEL2FAITH Newsletter to continue building a Christ-centered mindset that shapes every part of life.
Lord, thank You for inviting us into a life where our faith shapes how we live, lead, and make every decision. Renew our minds daily, that we may walk with clarity, humility, and trust in Your guidance rather than our own understanding. Draw us deeper into prayer, where our hearts learn to listen, surrender, and rest in Your presence. Help us to live out the mind of Christ with courage and love, reflecting Your peace and purpose in all that we do.