Renewed Mind

This artwork portrays a side profile of a woman captured in a moment of joyful laughter, her expression radiating confidence and peace as she looks toward the future. The realistic style brings out the subtleties of her features, emphasizing her serene yet vibrant demeanour. Her hair is adorned with delicate flowers and butterflies, each element representing the positive thoughts and transformative growth she has embraced. The flowers symbolize blooming ideas and newfound perspectives, while the butterflies signify change, freedom, and the beauty of a renewed mind.

The composition is rich in detail, with the artist's attention to the natural flow of her hair and the intricate patterns of the butterflies’ wings, creating a sense of movement and life. The overall atmosphere of the painting is one of hope and empowerment, illustrating how a transformed mind can lead to a transformed life—one filled with optimism, strength, and the joyful anticipation of what lies ahead. This piece invites viewers to reflect on the power of positive thinking and personal growth, encouraging them to embrace change and look forward to the future with a renewed sense of purpose and joy.

Scripture:
"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." — Philippians 4:8
"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 12:2
"She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue." — Proverbs 31:25-26

Reflection:
Philippians 4:8 calls us to focus our thoughts on what is true, pure, and praiseworthy. This discipline of the mind is essential for living a life transformed by God’s truth. Romans 12:2 reminds us that true transformation comes from renewing our minds, resisting the patterns of the world, and aligning our thoughts with God’s will.

Proverbs 31:25-26 illustrates a life shaped by such a renewal. The woman described is strong, dignified, and wise because her mind and heart are set on God’s truth. Her confidence in the future and her ability to speak wisdom reflect a life deeply rooted in the excellence and beauty that Philippians 4:8 encourages us to pursue.
By focusing on what is noble, lovely, and admirable, we open our lives to God’s transforming power. This renewal not only changes our thoughts but also our character, allowing us to live with strength, dignity, and wisdom.

Questions for Reflection:
What thoughts or influences do you need to filter out to focus on what is true and pure?
How can you allow God to renew your mind and transform your life today?

Art Prompt
Sketch a heart being filled with light or flowers, symbolizing the transformation that comes from focusing on what is pure and lovely. Inside the heart, write words from Philippians 4:8 that resonate with you.
Draw or paint a butterfly, symbolizing transformation. On the wings, write key words from Romans 12:2 or Philippians 4:8 that represent the renewal of your mind and the beauty of a life aligned with God’s will.
Draw a simple flower with each petal representing different aspects of wisdom, strength, and dignity from Proverbs 31:25-26. Let the center of the flower represent a heart rooted in God’s truth.

Prayer:
Lord, help me focus on what is true, pure, and praiseworthy. Transform my mind and life, so I may reflect Your strength, dignity, and wisdom. Amen.

Action Step:
This week, choose one area of your thought life that needs renewal. Replace negative or worldly thoughts with the truth of Philippians 4:8, and watch how it transforms your perspective and actions.

After installing this canvas print at the foyer of a buyer’s home, I provided the inspiration for this painting.