Do you sometimes find yourself cynical? Though I became a Christian as a child, I found myself taken hold by a spirit of cynicism as a teenager. I was overwhelmed by the opinions of thinkers in the world who actively argued against the truth of my faith. My mind entertained the skeptical arguments against the truth of Christ and God’s activity in the world. I questioned if my faith was true and if God was real. I consider this the “spirit of the world” mentioned in 1 Corinthians 2. As I have grown into adulthood, I have been profoundly thankful for God’s grace to minister to me with “the Spirit who is from God.”
God transformed my mind through a combination of Scripture, family influences, biblical community, authors, scholars, and biblical teachers who helped me to understand and believe the truth of Christianity. This was a process in which my perspective was set right by the Holy Spirit. I began to clearly understand the rationality of God and the reasons behind my faith. My belief in God’s supernatural activity was also revitalized.
As my life has progressed, God has continued to replace thoughts of cynicism with thoughts of belief. I now often find confidence and comfort when I examine the magnificent truths of God. I even experience awe and wonder as I learn about Him and His world. I am able to let go of concepts I don’t understand with complete certainty. I take a fearless approach to learning because I trust God’s reality. God also provides me with a firm belief in His miraculous power. This is a powerful work of God’s Holy Spirit.