Romans 12:2 ESV

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.“

It takes courage to be different – to stand apart from the crowd to maintain a set of Godly values.

It is easy to go with the the flow. To agree with whatever the world deems is the new correct way to proceed. It is easy not to oppose, but to just give in. Even when you know it is a bad Idea.

The problem with this is we serve a God who is the same yesterday, today, and forevermore. He does not change. His requirements do not change. His word will never change or fail.

To many, instead of standing on the infallible word of God, It is more inclusive to try and change our “interpretation” of the word. To try to convince the world that we had it wrong all along, and now the word means this… (insert the flavor of the flow here).

The Bible encourages us to not conform to the world (it’s views, goals, desires and beliefs), but to be transformed. We can only be transformed (a dramatic change), when our mind is renewed (give fresh life or strength to) by the word of God. Only God is able to change the way we think. When our thinking is changed, so will our behavior.

With a mind that is strengthened and support by the word of God, it is not hard to stand apart. To be that peculiar people.

With a renewed mind we can operate is love, for we are motivated by love. This love of God will automatically cause us to show Godly inclusion to all. To preach a gospel that speaks to us all, no matter who or where we are.

With a renewed mind, we are equipped to withstand the storm and pass the test. Testing will let us know that we are able to discern God’s will. This is key for the believer. The Bible tells us in Proverbs 3:5: “in all they getting, get understanding.”

All of the opportunities we have to stand firm on what the Bible says, are tests. Weather we succeed or fail, we gain experience. Your experience will help you to understand what is God’s good, acceptable, and perfect will. This understanding will identify the areas in your walk with God that are good, or acceptable or perfect (right) to Him; or where we are missing the mark altogether.

A renewed mind is life!