2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12 - v2
One of the big criticisms levelled at politicians and leaders from the press and public is when they shift their position on an issue that they had previously held. Leadership can look weak when this happens and yet we also want our politicians and leaders to be able to compromise and work with others and adapt to changing situations. The ability to rethink a position and admit that mistakes were made I believe is better leadership than stubbornly holding a position that isn't working well for fear they’ll be labelled as weak and indecisive.
The Bible encourages us to change our thinking all the time. The word "repent" in the New Testament literally means "to change your mind". But repentance is not about putting people who don't know Jesus under guilt and condemnation (turn or burn!). To get people to repent (change their minds) Jesus preached the good news of the kingdom. He didn't put their ability to change first before he forgave them, he offered love and grace and it was his love for them that changed their heart towards Him. The power to defeat the sin in their life followed after they been shown love.
People need to hear how much God loves them. They need to hear about Jesus’ unconditional favour and grace. The best way to tell them is to reveal the finished work of the cross. When the Corinthian Christians fell into sin, Paul still didn’t preach “turn from sin.” Instead he reminded them of their identity in Christ. He understood that grace, not condemnation, is the cure for sin.
For believers, repentance should be our life-style. You cannot renew your mind without repenting for repenting means to change your mind! The more I discover about Gods goodness and how He wants to see me living life to the fullest, I need to repent – I need to change my way of thinking so that my life lines up with what is true.
The power to change is a great gift we have been given, it is not weakness. If something isn't working in your life, change your thinking towards Gods ways and your breakthrough will come.