Are You Being Conformed or Transformed?
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We are living in an age where it is becoming more difficult to distinguish between those in the world and those who profess to be followers of Christ. We know this is not what Jesus wants. Let’s walk through Romans 12:2 and consider the difference between being conformed or transformed.
1. You need a heart that has been cleansed through Christ
If Christ has not cleansed your heart through salvation, then there is no hope of ever being like Christ. This is not something you can do on your own strength. To be a person who reflects Christ, you need the help of Christ to do this. The reason salvation is necessary for this process is the moment you are saved, the Holy Spirit comes to dwell inside you. He is the one that will give you the power to change.
Remember, you must change the root to get different fruit.
2. You must agree with God has said in his word
God’s word does not align with the patterns of this world. It stands in stark contrast to them. If your mind is going to be renewed, then you must choose to align with God’s word. That means you have a responsibility to know what it says and to think Biblically about the issues of our day. This alignment with God’s word means you replace your own thoughts and opinions with God’s thoughts and opinions on any topic.
Honestly, just doing this alone will have you thinking differently than those in the world. When your thinking aligns, then your actions will follow.
The last question I want to answer is why a renewed mind is necessary. The answer is so you can do God’s will. Paul says in Romans 12:2 that when your mind is renewed you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is. A renewed mind gives you renewed vision, which allows you to see and understand what you could not see and understand before. That means if your mind is not renewed you won’t be able to do this.
Ultimately, this entire process of transformation is so you can become the person God created you to be in Christ. In addition, when he is transforming you, he is making you ready to do what he has prepared for you to do.
Let me end with the same question I began with. Is your life looking more like Christ or more like the world?
I hope you see there is a reason that transformation is necessary. It is not just for your sake, but for the sake of those around you. When you become more like Christ, you position yourself to influence the lives of others in the way God intended. However, there is only one way this will happen. It is with the transformation that comes from a renewed mind.
If you are fighting this, then ask yourself why. I can assure you of one thing. This transformation is the key to experiencing God’s best in every part of your life. If that is what you want, then lean into renewing your mind and I promise you it will be the best decision you can make for your life in Christ.
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