Read: Romans 12:2

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 the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Reflect:

In Romans 12:2, Paul gives us quite a contrasting picture of life.

First, we are to not allow the world to shape our lives.

Jesus contrasted the lives of His followers with those who do not follow this way –

“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it” (Matthew 7: 13-14).

These words are possibly even more difficult in our world today, because of Jesus’ claim that all roads do not lead to Life. So, we are to walk a different road and lead a life that is different. In a world that puts “me” first, Jesus demands we follow His words.

Second, we are to be transformed by the renewal of our minds.

So how do we do renew our minds? Most of the time we try really hard and for a while, it all seems on track, but then we fall or we fail or we at least stumble. Why? With all the distractions around us (even the current crisis), it is all too easy to get caught up in the moment, isn’t it?

Respond:

I heard someone describe the idea of trying to renew our minds and not conforming to the world around us is like an extension cord plugged into itself. The cord has no power in itself and a life that isn’t connected to the power of God’s Spirit is going to lead to real frustration and possibly disillusionment because we are trying to be transformed on our own.

Am I trying to do it all on my own? That’s the question for today.