When I started writing God's Chicks in 2008, I knew I needed a verse that would capture my vision for this blog. Romans 12:2 couldn't have been any better.
Do not conform any longer 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.
Yes! This is not only what I desire for myself, but what I desire for you as well. God does not want us to allow this world to become our identity, but rather He wants to show us who we are.
Let's unpack these amazing words from Paul.
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world:
Conform -
- to be similar to or the same as something
- to obey or agree with something
- to do what other people do
- to behave in a way that is accepted by most people
If you know anything about Roman history, there was a lot of sinful behavior that was considered "normal". There was a "pattern" of sin that was completely acceptable. Most were still worshipping the Roman gods and had a loose moral code. Paul was cautioning the Roman Church to completely turn away from what they knew and what was popular around them and be different.
These words are still right and good for us! There is still evil and corruption and a loose moral code. It is always easier to "go with the flow" or be popular and not stand out, but God desires more for you than the "status quo". He knows that stepping out in faith and being different is difficult, but He also knows what is best.
but be transformed by the renewing of your mind:
Transformed -
- to change (something) completely and usually in a good way
- to change in composition for structure
- to change the outward form or appearance of
- to change in character or condition : convert
Being transformed is a process, not a single event. Being saved - single event. Being transformed - process. And we must be actively part of this process. It will not just happen. Our composition and structure can be changed. So can our character and condition. But it will take some time. And we must be intentional about being in God's Word and taking the time to understand what God is saying and why He is saying it.
Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is -
God has this amazing plan for me. He has an amazing plan for you! He has known His plans for us for always. He is not in Heaven right now having a planning committee meeting with Jesus and a few high ranking angels. We have been a part of His Plan since the beginning. He knew us before we were even born. He already had a plan for our life.
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you..." Jeremiah 1:5
Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. Psalm 139:16
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. Psalm 139:14
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11
By knowing God's Word and by spending time in His Presence, He will give you discernment regarding things that are happening so that you will know if they are His will for you or not.
his good, pleasing and perfect will.
No, not everything that happens in your life once you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior will "feel" good or "seem" pleasing or "appear" perfect.
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD.
Isaiah 55:8
We may not ever understand why God takes us on the path that He does...the very narrow path...but He knows. And we must trust that He knows.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
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