The Power of Renewal: A Life Transformed by Aluhym

Given that this blog is called Renewed, it makes perfect sense to take a closer look at the Scriptural concept of renewal—what it truly means, and what it involves.

Renewal is a significant theme that runs throughout the Scriptures. It is a vital aspect of Aluhym’s (God's) redemptive work in His people, speaking not only of forgiveness but of restoration, revival, and deep inner transformation. This process is not merely external or surface-level; it is profoundly deep and spiritual, touching every part of a believer’s life and reshaping their identity in Messiah.

To begin this exploration, we’ll first consider the etymology of the word “renew.”

In the Tanakh (Old Testament), the Hebrew verb חָדַשׁ (ḥāḏaš, H2318) means “to be new,” or in the causative stem (Hiphil), “to renew, to make new, or to rebuild.” It conveys the idea of restoring or refreshing something that has deteriorated or grown old. While it can be used literally, it is often employed in figurative or spiritual contexts. The term expresses restoration, revival, and a return to strength or original purpose—whether referring to the heart, the nation, or even a covenant.

In the New Testament, the Greek language offers several nuanced words that deepen our understanding of renewal.

The Greek verb ἀνακαινόω (anakainoō, G341) means “to make new again” or “to renew inwardly.” It is derived from the prefix ἀνά (ana, G303), meaning “again,” and καινός (kainos, G2537), which refers to something new in quality or nature, as opposed to νέος (neos, G3501), which typically denotes something new in time. This verb emphasises inner transformation—especially of the mind and spirit—rather than external or superficial change. In the New Testament, anakainoō appears in contexts that speak of the spiritual renewal of the “inner man,” highlighting a continuous process of restoration by divine influence. This inward renewal aligns the believer increasingly with the character, image, and knowledge of Aluhym. Notably, anakainoō is used in 2 Corinthians 4:16, where it describes the inner self being renewed day by day, even as the outer self deteriorates, and in Colossians 3:10, where it speaks of the new self being renewed in knowledge according to the image of its Creator.

Closely related to anakainoō is the noun ἀνακαίνωσις (anakainōsis, G342), which refers to the process of renewal or renovation and signifies a complete transformation for the better. As the noun form of anakainoō, it emphasizes not just the act of renewing, but the result—namely, deep inner change. In the New Testament, anakainōsis is used in contexts that speak of the renewal of the mind or spiritual rebirth, pointing to the profound transformation that occurs through the work of the Holy Spirit. It affirms the theological reality that renewal transcends mere moral refinement or outward behavioural reform, encompassing instead a divine re-creation that works from the innermost being outward—effecting an entirely new orientation of life.The term appears in Romans 12:2, which speaks of transformation through “the renewing of the mind” (ἀνακαίνωσις τοῦ νοός), and in Titus 3:5, where salvation is described as occurring “by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit” (ἀνακαινώσεως).

A third term, ἀνανεόω (ananeoō, G365), also translates as "to renew," though it carries a slightly different nuance from anakainoō. This word conveys a more literal or experiential sense of rejuvenation—suggesting the restoration of freshness, vitality, or youthfulness. While anakainoō emphasizes deep moral or spiritual transformation, ananeoō leans toward the idea of refreshing one’s inner disposition or mental state. It can be seen as a complementary expression of inward renewal, focusing especially on the mindset or attitude. Though it appears only once in the New Testament, its meaning remains significant: in Ephesians 4:23, Sha’ul (Paul) exhorts believers “to be renewed in the spirit of your minds” (ἀνανεοῦσθαι – ananeousthai), pointing to the necessity of a continually renewed mindset aligned with the truth and character of Aluhym.

Together, these Greek terms illustrate a rich and layered understanding of renewal in the New Testament. They speak of transformation that is internal, spiritual, and ongoing—rooted in divine grace and aimed at conforming believers to the will and likeness of Aluhym.

In the English language, the Cambridge Dictionary defines renewal as:“a process in which something improves or is improved after being in a bad condition.”

Taken together, these definitions show that renewal involves a transformation—changing something for the better, improving what is worn or damaged, and making it new again.

In the Christian context, renewal signifies a deep, spiritual transformation through the power of Aluhym. It is a complete change in which the old, sinful nature is replaced by a new, redeemed identity in Messiah. As 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares:

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”

This transformative process permeates every area of a believer’s life. Scripture unfolds several dimensions of this renewal, each adding depth to our understanding of what it truly means to walk in newness of life.

Let us begin with one of the most essential aspects: the Renewal of the Mind. As Sha'ul exhorts in Romans 12:1–2:

“I call upon you, therefore, brothers, through the compassion of Aluhym, to present your bodies a living offering—set-apart, well-pleasing to Aluhym—your reasonable worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you prove what is that good and well-pleasing and perfect desire of Aluhym.”

This passage emphasises the importance of allowing Aluhym to transform our patterns of thinking and perspective, leading to a deeper understanding of His will. Romans 12:2 encourages believers to resist the influence of a worldly mindset and instead undergo a spiritual transformation through the renewal of their minds. By aligning their thoughts and attitudes with the truth and wisdom of Aluhym, they gain the ability to discern and walk in His will, which is inherently good, pleasing, and perfect. This verse highlights the necessity of inner renewal and spiritual growth in understanding and fulfilling Aluhym’s purpose for our lives.

Here, Sha’ul exhorts us to live transformed lives in response to Aluhym's compassion. In Romans 12:1, he urges us to present our bodies as living sacrifices—holy and pleasing to Aluhym—as an act and means of worship. By offering our bodies, we express wholehearted devotion and a surrendering of our will to Aluhym. This sacrifice is to be holy, meaning set apart from the defilement of sin and fully consecrated to His service.

Sha’ul continues in verse 2 with a negative command: “Do not be conformed to this world.” In this, he warns against adopting the mindset, values, and behaviours of the surrounding secular culture. He refers to the morally corrupt standards so often found in society, which stand in stark contrast to Aluhym’s righteous ways.

Following this, Sha’ul implores that we are not to remain as we are, but to be transformed. The Greek term used here is μεταμορφόω (metamorphoō, G3339), from which we derive the English word metamorphosis. It denotes a change from one form into another—specifically, into the image of the Son of Aluhym, who Himself is “the image of the invisible Aluhym” (Colossians 1:15). This transformation is not merely external or superficial; it is a profound inner change that permeates every aspect of life. And it begins with the renewal of the mind.

The New Testament uses metamorphoō in two other significant contexts. In Matthew 17:2 and Mark 9:2, it describes Messiah’s transfiguration, when His glory was revealed before the disciples—a visible change reflecting His divine nature. In 2 Corinthians 3:18, Sha’ul applies the term to believers, declaring that “we all… are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory,” by the Spirit of יהוה. Both examples illuminate Sha'ul’s intent here: our transformation is a Spirit-driven process that reshapes us inwardly and outwardly into the likeness of Messiah, reflecting His character, glory, and life.

Sha'ul speaks of our mind being renewed. According to Thayer’s Greek Lexicon, the word “mind” (νοῦς, nous, G3563) encompasses “the intellective faculty, the understanding,” and “reason,” and includes “the capacity for spiritual truth, the higher powers of the soul, the faculty of perceiving divine things, of recognising goodness and of hating evil,” as well as “the power of considering and judging soberly, calmly, and impartially.” In the Septuagint, nous is used as the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew word לֵב (lev or leb H3820), which carries meanings such as “inner man,” “mind,” “will,” and “heart.”

Renewal, then, implies a continuous process of spiritual growth and transformation, enabled by (the) Ruach ha'Qodesh (Holy Spirit), wherein one’s inner person—mind, reasoning, judgement, and heart—is increasingly conformed to יהוה’s truth and wisdom as revealed in Scripture.

This renewal enables us to discern Aluhym’s good, well-pleasing, and perfect will. By aligning our minds with His truth, we gain insight into His character, purposes, and desires. This discernment empowers us to make choices that reflect harmony with יהוה’s plan. As we grow in spiritual maturity, we develop an intuitive awareness of what aligns with Aluhym’s character and what does not.

In essence, Romans 12:1–2 underscores the transformative power of יהוה and His Good News, which frees us from conformity to the world’s standards. It highlights the crucial role of ongoing spiritual renewal in shaping our lives to align with His will for all humanity—enabling us to bear witness to the values of יהוה’s kingdom in a fallen world.

Speaking of a renewal of the innermost being, the inner man, we read the following in 2 Corinthians 4:16-18:

“Therefore we do not lose heart, but even if our outward man is perishing, the inward man is being renewed day by day. For this slight momentary pressure, is working for us a far more exceeding and everlasting weight of esteem. We are not looking on what is seen, but on what is not seen. For what is seen passes away, but what is not seen is everlasting.”

These verses speak to the ongoing process of inward renewal that occurs in the lives of believers, even amid outward trials and difficulties.

Here Sha’ul offers a profound insight into the paradoxical nature of the Christian experience. He begins by acknowledging the reality of outward trials and afflictions. The phrase "but even if our outward man is perishing" conveys the idea of physical decay and the inevitable hardships that accompany life in a fallen world. Sha’ul himself experienced numerous trials, including persecution, imprisonment, and physical suffering (as described in 2 Corinthians 11:23-28), making his words particularly resonant and credible.

However, Sha’ul's perspective transcends mere acknowledgment of suffering. He contrasts the outward decay with an inward reality: "the inward man is being renewed day by day." Here, he highlights the ongoing process of spiritual renewal that occurs within us believers. Despite the challenges we face externally, there is a continuous work of transformation happening internally, orchestrated by (the) Ruach ha'Qodesh.

The phrase "being renewed day by day" emphasises the dynamic and progressive nature of this inward renewal. It is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey of growth and transformation. Each day brings new opportunities for us to be conformed more fully to the image of Messiah, to grow in faith, love, and maturity.

Sha’ul’s message is one of encouragement and hope. Despite the challenges and trials of life, we can take comfort in the knowledge that Aluhym is actively at work within us—and that we are not passive, but complicit in this process, participating in the ongoing renewal and transformation that unfolds day by day. This perspective empowers us to face difficulties with resilience, knowing that we can do all things through Messiah, who strengthens us.

Moreover, Sha’ul’s words serve as a reminder of the ultimate purpose of suffering on our walk with Aluhym. While outward trials may be painful and difficult to endure, they serve to refine and strengthen our faith, producing perseverance, character, and hope (Romans 5:3-5). Thus, even in the midst of suffering, we can trust in Aluhym's sovereign and redemptive purposes, knowing that He is using all things for our ultimate good (Romans 8:28).

In summary, 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 offers a profound perspective on the Christian experience, highlighting the tension between outward suffering and inward renewal. It reminds us that while we may face trials and hardships in this life, we are continually being transformed into the likeness of Christ by the power of (the) Ruach ha'Qodesh. This truth provides a source of encouragement and hope, enabling us to persevere with faith and confidence in יהוה's unfailing love and faithfulness.

Next, we look at Renewal of Knowledge. And we read the following in Colossians 3:9-10:

“Do not lie to each other, since you have put off the old man with his practices, and have put on the new one who is renewed in knowledge according to the likeness of Him who created him, where there is not Greek and Yehuḏite, circumcised and uncircumcised, foreigner, Scythian, slave, free, but Messiah is all, and in all.”

This verse speaks to a vital dimension of renewal: renewal in knowledge. Here, the apostle Sha’ul connects the believer’s transformation not only to the putting off of the old self, but to the active putting on of the new self—a regenerated identity that reflects the likeness of Aluhym Himself. However, this transformation does not occur in a vacuum; it is in knowledge that this renewal unfolds.

The Greek word used here for “knowledge” is ἐπίγνωσις (epignōsis, G1922), a word that implies more than intellectual information. It refers to a deep, personal, experiential knowledge—a recognition and relational understanding that leads to change. This isn’t abstract theory or religious facts; it is a knowledge that reshapes the mind, reorients the heart, and aligns one’s will with the truth and character of Aluhym.

Being renewed in knowledge means that the mind is not only cleansed from falsehood but continually nourished by truth—truth that reveals who Aluhym is, what He desires, and who we are in Him. This type of knowledge is integral because it informs and transforms our perception of reality, guiding our conduct and shaping our identity in Messiah.

Sha’ul says that this renewal happens according to the image of the Creator, which points directly to the Messiah, who is the image of the invisible Aluhym (Colossians 1:15). Thus, knowledge is not an end in itself but serves the purpose of conforming us to the likeness of Messiah—in character, in thought, and in deed.

In a world that exalts feelings, opinions, and self-made identities, the renewal of the mind through knowledge becomes absolutely essential for spiritual clarity and discernment. Without being anchored in true knowledge—rooted in the Word and revealed in Messiah—we risk being shaped by the patterns of this world rather than by the will of יהוה.

Therefore, renewal in knowledge is not optional; it is a central mechanism by which we are sanctified and matured. It fuels our spiritual growth, deepens our love for יהוה, and equips us to live wisely, righteously, and faithfully in a world that often suppresses truth. As we continue to grow in the knowledge of Aluhym, we are steadily transformed into His image, fulfilling the very purpose for which we were redeemed.

In order to be conformed to the image of our Creator, as Colossians 3:10 teaches, Sha’ul goes on in that chapter to describe what this renewed life should look like. He exhorts us to put on compassion, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, and patience—bearing with one another and forgiving each other if anyone has a complaint against another. Just as Messiah forgave us, so also should we forgive. But above all these, we are to put on love, which binds everything together in perfect unity. We are also to let the peace of Aluhym rule in our hearts—and to be thankful.

Next, we look at: Renewal of Behaviour. And we read the following in Ephesians 4:17-25:

“So this I say, and witness in the Master, that you should no longer walk as the gentiles walk, in the futility of their mind, having been darkened in their understanding, having been estranged from the life of Aluhym, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardness of their heart, who, having become callous, have given themselves up to indecency, to work all uncleanness with greediness. But you have not so learned Messiah, if indeed you have heard Him and were taught by Him, as truth is in יהושוע: that you put off – with regard to your former way of life – the old man, being corrupted according to the desires of the deceit, and to be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the renewed man which was created according to Aluhym, in righteousness and set-apartness of the truth. Therefore, having put off the false, speak truth, each one with his neighbour, for we are members of one another.”

Here we also have a renewal in the spirit of our minds accompanied by a changing of oneself, becoming a renewed man. Sha’ul urges us to live in stark contrast to our former way of life before coming to faith in Messiah. He describes the Gentiles' way of life, our former way of living, as characterised by futility of mind, darkness of understanding, and estrangement from the life of Aluhym. This condition resulted from ignorance and hardness of heart, which led us to indulge in sinful behaviours with callousness and greed. Our lives were marked by moral decay and selfish pursuits, devoid of the righteousness and set-apartness that come from יהוה.

However, Sha’ul reminds us that we have not learned such a lifestyle from Messiah but that we have been taught the truth as revealed in Him. This truth demands a radical transformation: we are called to "put off" our old selves which were corrupted by deceitful desires and worldly influences. This involves a deliberate renunciation of sinful habits and attitudes, a turning away from the ways of the world, facilitated by and acting in harmony with a renewal in the spirit of our minds, allowing us to undergo a continual transformation of our inner being, the inner man.

Here again we see the emphasis of the renewal of the mind which is followed by becoming a renewed man, with the word man here being the Greek word ἄνθρωπος (anthropos, G444) which refers to a human being, whether male or female. This renewal is facilitated by the Ruach haQodesh, enabling believers to think and act in accordance with יהוה's will as we are instructed to "put on" the new self which is created in the likeness of Aluhym in true righteousness and holiness. This new identity is characterised by conformity to יהוה's standards of righteousness and set-apartness and causes us to reflect His character in every aspect of our lives.

Then practically speaking, this transformation is evidenced in believers' interpersonal relationships as Sha’ul emphasises the importance of truthfulness in our speech to one another, highlighting the interconnectedness of the body of Messiah as we believers are members of one another, called to build up and encourage one another in love, speaking truthfully and edifying each other.

In summary, Ephesians 4:17-25 presents a comprehensive vision of Christian discipleship. It calls believers to a radical departure from their former way of life, characterised by sin and disobedience, and a wholehearted commitment to a new way of living in Christ. This new life involves the ongoing renewal of the mind and conformity to Aluhym's moral standards, working in tandem, alongside active participation in the community of faith, characterised by truthfulness, love, and edification.

Next we look at Renewal of Spirit. And we read the following in Psalm 51:10:

“Create in me a clean heart, O Aluhym, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”

Psalm 51:10 encapsulates a profound plea for spiritual renewal and transformation from King David, following his grievous sin with Bathsheba and the subsequent events. This prayer is situated within Psalm 51, often referred to as David's "penitential psalm," where he pours out his heart in repentance and seeks Aluhym's forgiveness and restoration.

David begins this particular verse with the plea, "Create in me a clean heart, O Aluhym." Here, he acknowledges the depth of his sin and the inherent corruption within his own heart. The verb "create" conveys the idea of a radical, divine transformation, indicating that mere human effort alone is insufficient to cleanse the heart from sin's defilement. David recognises that only Aluhym has the power to create or shape purity within him, to purge him of his transgressions and restore him to a state of moral integrity. 

Yet, David is not a passive bystander in this process—his very appeal, his heartfelt petition, reveals his active participation in this process of transformation. The desire for a clean heart reflects David's recognition of the importance and even necessity of inner purity and righteousness before Aluhym. He understands that genuine fellowship with Aluhym requires a heart that is cleansed from sin and aligned with Aluhym's will. By praying for a clean heart, David expresses his longing to be in right relationship with Aluhym, acknowledging that such purity is foundational to a life of obedience and devotion.

Furthermore, David petitions Aluhym to "renew a steadfast spirit within me." This request speaks to the need for spiritual renewal. David acknowledges his own frailty and susceptibility to temptation, recognising the importance of a resolute and unwavering commitment to Aluhym. He desires a spirit that is steadfast and unwavering in its devotion to Aluhym, one that is firmly grounded in faith and obedience.

In essence, Psalm 51:10 reflects David's profound awareness of his own sinfulness and his heartfelt longing for spiritual renewal and transformation. It underscores the importance of a pure heart and a steadfast spirit in the life of faith, highlighting the necessity of יהוה’s intervention for true repentance and restoration. As believers, we can resonate with David's prayer, recognising our own need for יהוה's cleansing and spiritual renewal in order to walk faithfully in His ways. After all, without a right spirit leading and guiding us, how can our minds and behaviours be truly renewed?

This transformation is echoed, and even finds its fulfilment, in Ezekiel 36:26, where יהוה declares what He Himself will do for His people:

“And I shall sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean – from all your filthiness and from all your idols I cleanse you. And I shall give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you. And I shall take the heart of stone out of your flesh, and I shall give you a heart of flesh, and put My Spirit within you. And I shall cause you to walk in My laws and guard My right-rulings and shall do them.”

Next, we look at Renewal of Strength. And we read the following in Isaiah 40:29-31:

“He gives power to the faint, and to those who have no might He increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men stumble and fall, but those who wait on יהוה renew their strength, they raise up the wing like eagles, they run and are not weary, they walk and do not faint.”

These verses remind us that those who wait on and trust in יהוה will experience a renewal of strength, enabling us to persevere on this walk and through life's challenges!

Isaiah 40:31 offers encouragement to those who place their hope and trust in יהוה. It promises that such individuals will experience a renewal of strength from Aluhym. The imagery of soaring on wings like eagles suggests a transcendent, empowered state in which believers are lifted above their circumstances—not necessarily by escaping them physically, but by receiving strength to persevere through them. We are empowered to rise above adversity, to see beyond the immediate challenges instead to the eternal purposes of Aluhym. Additionally, the verse assures that those who wait on יהוה will have endurance—they will run without growing weary and walk without fainting. Overall, Isaiah 40:31 speaks to the sustaining power and vitality that Aluhym provides to those who remain steadfast in their faith and reliance on Him.

This verse is nestled within the larger context of Isaiah 40, which heralds comfort and assurance to Aluhym's people, particularly in times of exile and distress. The chapter begins with the proclamation, "Comfort, comfort My people," assuring us of יהוה's steadfast love and faithfulness.

The phrase "those who wait (or in some translations ‘hope’) in יהוה" speaks to an active and steadfast trust in יהוה's character, promises, and sovereignty, even in the face of adversity. This hope is not passive resignation but a confident expectation that Aluhym will fulfil His purposes and provide for His people.

Furthermore, the verse assures us that those who wait on יהוה will have endurance. We will not grow weary in the journey of life, nor will we faint under the weight of trials. Instead, we will run with perseverance and walk with steadfastness, sustained by the inexhaustible strength of our Aluhym. Endurance is essential, as our Master affirms in Matthew 10:22, where He says: “… But he who shall have endured to the end shall be saved.” We can also remember what Sha’ul says in Philippians 4:13 - “I have strength to do all, through Messiah who empowers me.”

In essence, these verses here in Isaiah speak to the transformative power of hope and trust in Aluhym. It assures us that in the midst of life's struggles, יהוה is our source of strength and endurance. By placing our hope and expectancy in Him and waiting patiently for Him, we can experience a renewal of vitality and resilience, enabling us to soar above our circumstances and journey with steadfastness and courage.

Furthermore, Psalm 103:5 says the following: “Who satisfies your desire with the good, your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.” With BibleRef giving the following commentary on this verse: 

“This verse also credits the Lord with renewing the believer's life with the energy and strength of the eagle. The eagle molts: it casts off its old feathers and grows new ones, thereby gaining a new lease on life. Regardless of the believer's age, he finds the strength and vitality he needs to do the Lord's will.”

Finally, I’d like to talk briefly about the overarching notion of renewal.

The need for renewal stems from humanity's plight since the fall in Eden, where sin fractured our relationship with Aluhym and marred our world. Apart from Messiah, we're spiritually dead, enslaved to sin's grip, incapable of changing our condition. However, יהוה's promise of renewal shines through Messiah יהושוע, who offers forgiveness, redemption, and transformation. This renewal begins with faith and repentance—turning away from self-reliance and sin, and placing trust in Messiah for salvation. Yet, it does not end there. Renewal is an ongoing process of sanctification, in which the Spirit of יהוה actively works within us—renewing our spirit, mind, and conduct, and thereby conforming us to the image of Messiah. This process also requires a renewal of strength, enabling us to endure faithfully. As a result, we experience new life in Him, no longer defined by our former ways. This transformation becomes evident in our words, actions, and mindset, as we begin to reflect the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, trustworthiness, gentleness, and self-control—demonstrating the reality of יהוה’s renewing work in our lives.

In conclusion, whilst the discussion has not been exhaustive, we have seen that the Scriptures present renewal as a central aspect of our walk with Aluhym — encompassing the transformation of the mind or inner man, behaviour, spirit, and strength. These facets of renewal are not mutually exclusive, but are different expressions of the same renewing work of יהוה’s Spirit, operating together in harmony through the redemptive work of יהושוע the Messiah. Renewal is not merely a one-time event but a lifelong journey and process of transformation, in which “the inward man is being renewed day by day.” As we walk in faith and obedience, may we continually surrender ourselves to Aluhym's renewing work in our lives, allowing His Spirit to mould us into the image of His Son, and thus bearing witness to the power and glory of יהוה.

May יהוה be with you and bless you.