The Need To Pivot
Recently, the word “pivot” has become extremely important to me. I am currently struggling with a broken foot, and when struggling to move myself from a knee scooter to a car seat, or stumbling from a car seat to a wheelchair, the ability to pivot is helpful. I have learned to keep my body’s core in a stable position, while at the same time turning toward the new direction I am intending to go. Similarly, in life, I encounter situations in which I need to pivot.
The Apostle Paul instructed believers in Romans 12:2 urging, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may prove what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
Often Biblical writers use “the world” as a metaphor to paint a picture of un-Godly ways. Sometimes faith is presented as a positive alternative to “the ways of the world.” However, living in the world is all we know. Our bodies are firmly planted in this world, but we can choose to pivot—to turn our thoughts, hearts and minds toward God.
The apostle recommends that the key to our spiritual transformation is the renewal of our mind. I believe there are three ways to help renew our minds:
Keep our channels of communication open to God. Prayer can become an ongoing mindset vs. something we do at a specific phase of our day, for a specific amount of time. I like to think of my mind as a radio— I always want to keep my frequency dialed in to God. He hears my thoughts, and I hear His. If we open our minds in this way, we will continuously hear Him guide us, encourage us and share His love with us.
Focus our hearts on Godly pursuits. As a believer, we aim to please God with how we live our lives. We are taught in the Bible that God looks upon us inwardly, not just outwardly. He knows our motivations, desires and dreams. We need to periodically keep these aspects of our hearts in check.
Adjust our thinking. In Philippians 4:8, Paul provides a brilliant “list” of the most important areas in which to concentrate our thinking: “Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honest, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
As we remain firmly planted in this world, may God grant us courage and strength to pivot when necessary to move us in new directions that bring praise, honor and glory to Him.