The word “Preconceived” is made up of two English words. The first is “Pre;” which means something done in advance. The second is “Conceived;” which means to be pregnant. A preconceived mind is a mind that is already made up or pregnant with something.
Knowledge or experience can’t affect such a mind. Although such a mind can have many negative implications, there are instances when such a mind is good.
One instance is our mental posture concerning suffering. Christians should make up their minds beforehand that serving the Lord involves suffering. For example; forgiving a spouse who has hurt you can be difficult. Fasting and praying can be difficult. Obeying the will of God may cause you to lose friends and even money. Breaking up with someone you love because of your Christian principles can be painful.
1 Peter 4:1
Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin.
It is time to “arm yourselves likewise with the same mind.” What mind is this? The mind Christ had concerning suffering. “Christ suffered for us in the flesh.”
Have a preconceived mind that suffering is part of Christianity, and you will take it better, if and when the time comes!
Kakra Baiden
