A Biblical Growth Mindset

Thought for the Day: With the Holy Spirit, nothing is impossible!

I recently realized that I am a “veteran” when it comes to K-12 schooling. While I haven’t taught for 50 years, I did the math and realized that next year will be my 25th (13 years as a student plus 12 years as staff/faculty) school year. If that quarter-century has taught me anything, it is the difference between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset.

If you are unfamiliar with these terms, let’s keep it simple: a fixed mindset operates under the premise that there are skills I can do, and skills I can’t do. For example, “I’m just not good at math.” However, a growth mindset encourages progress through a simple three-letter word – YET. “I can’t solve this word problem yet, but I can practice and get better.” A growth mindset encourages progress through hard work and a positive attitude. Still, even the greatest growth mindset has its limitations. Humans can only will themselves so far. Eventually, we run out of internal strength, and our practice/growth stalls.

Writing to the Romans, the Apostle Paul wrote about something even greater than a growth mindset. While the world and our sinful desires put limitations on believers, Paul encouraged each of us to experience a “renewal of the mind” by the power of the Holy Spirit. While YET has some power, the Holy Spirit has authority and strength that will never run out.

The next time we feel less-than or limited, let’s be open to experiencing a Biblical Growth Mindset. On our own, we can only get so far. However, when we follow the leading of the Holy Spirit, nothing is impossible!

In Christ,

Pastor David