To have the mind of Christ, is to live life here with our hope set securely in heaven (which was the joy set before Him as He endured the cross). To have the mind of Christ is also to pray without ceasing, without losing heart–staying connected as the Son is always connected to the Father. And this is just the beginning!
When circumstances are confusing, when our reactions stem from emotions run amok, or when we find it difficult to rest in His wisdom, then we know our hearts need a moment to be refreshed from His streams of living water. We come to Him thirsty and He fills us up to overflowing.
For this mind we pray:
The mind set on the Spirit is life and peace (Romans 8:5-8). O Lord, help us set to aside time that we may set our minds on the things of Your Spirit, knowing we are not robbing our families or vocations of time with us when we do this. We want this life and peace, keep us back from seeking pseudo-life and pseudo-peace. Your Spirit is lifegiving, pour that life into us, that our inner man may flourish in Your peace, and we may in turn be lifegiving to those around us.
Set your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:13). LORD it is so hard to think this way while in the thick of things, but Your hope will anchor us in the worst of storms. Train us, that we may more easily think this way! The grace that awaits is beyond our wildest imaginations–lift our heads and let us take comfort in this mindset, rather than remaining stuck in thinking upon merely our “here and now” circumstances.
Be sober minded for the sake of your prayers (1 Peter 4:7). Lord–thank you that you hear prayers, answer prayers, and even help us pray! We are not so sober minded when our minds spin out of control with fear, doubt or worry. Give us the heart to trust you as a little child, and to pray without losing heart, and to wait for You. Send Your Spirit of Truth and Comfort to wash over us, fill us, and give us a sober mind.