Scripture: “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” – Romans 12:2
Examination: The book of Romans was written by Paul, the apostle, to the Christians in the city. He is explaining that the gospel is for both Jews and Gentiles. In this particular chapter, Paul is writing about the importance of living wholly as a follower of Christ, aligning one’s mind with the truth of the gospel instead of accepting what the world has to offer.
Application: In the children’s game, Simon Says, there is a leader who states various commands that the others are to follow when the words, “Simon says” are spoken. Those who fail to act at the appropriate time are out of the game. The winner is the one who has successfully followed each command correctly. Often, the participants cast a glance to see what the others are doing, and then they do the same motion. Many times, this results in being eliminated from the current round of play as they’ve copied someone who didn’t follow the correct command.
As Christians, it is imperative that we follow the teachings of the Lord instead of our culture. Sometimes, the world thinks it is doing what is “right”, and many, including Christians, fall into sin, accepting what man says as being what God says. However, the Bible tells us in Proverbs 14:12, “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” We must choose wisely as to whom we follow in our lives.
Paul instructed the Roman Christians to renew their minds. This meant that they needed to know God’s truth and make that their compass through life. They did that by following the apostle’s teachings. Today, we have the Bible to teach us God’s truth. It is the ONLY source that holds the key to living according to His will. It outlines how to have a personal relationship with Him through His Son, how to stand strong against temptation and sin, and how to interact with others. It provides instruction for us, comfort for us, and hope for our future. The Bible is our manual for godly living. 2 Timothy 3:16 states, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:”
However, we must be cautious when studying the Bible; we cannot pick and choose verses and use them out of context to suit our own desires. To renew our minds, as Paul writes, we must be diligent in our study of the Scriptures. We must listen to the Spirit of God as He deepens our understanding of the Word of God, and then align our life with it. 2 Timothy 2:15 tells us, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
As we let God lead us in the study of His Word, our thinking will be transformed as we learn more and more of “what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God”. Then, as our minds are renewed, our lives will reflect Jesus more and more to the world as each one of us becomes “… a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God.” (Romans 12:1)
Memory Verse: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” – Romans 12:1
Jesus, Savior, great Example,
Pattern of all purity,
I would follow in thy footsteps,
Daily growing more like thee.
More like thee, more like thee;
Savior, this my constant prayer shall be—
Day by day, where'er I stay,
Make me more and more like thee.
(from “More Like Thee” by William J. Kirkpatrick)