Since we’ve already established in previous devotions the importance of moving from a posture of waiting to one of preparation, the next logical question is how do we do it? For the next few days, I want to talk about four specific things we can do to get ready to receive God’s best for our future. Taken from the ancient Hebrew ceremonial cleansing ritual called Mikvah, which the Jews would undertake whenever they entered the temple for worship, I hope these practical steps will empower us to focus on actively preparing for our next season. The first thing we must do to set the stage for what’s to come is to prepare our minds. Just as Jewish worshippers would wash their heads as a way of asking the Lord to purify their thoughts, it’s important that we give attention to our contemplations and intellect. This means that we should consider what we dwell on and whether or not it’s beneficial to us as we look ahead. Do we have patterns of negative thinking that need to be uprooted? Or is there a particular skill we need to acquire in order to gain confidence for our next season? As we ponder these questions and take action in response, we demonstrate our willingness to do whatever is required to move into God’s best. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a class, getting a mentor, or consistently meditating on Scripture, it’s imperative that we keep our brains engaged and our thoughts focused on inheriting all that the Lord has for us.

My friend, as you prepare to move into the next chapter of your story, I encourage you to fully engage your mind. Don’t settle for where you’re at right now, but rather, proactively look for ways to learn and grow. Bring your ideas into alignment with Biblical truth, ask the Lord to purge destructive thoughts, and let Him reveal specific areas in which you can stretch. The intellect He has blessed you with is a direct reflection of His power, and He is delighted by your desire to be consistently transformed while awaiting the revelation of His greater plan and purpose.