Monday, 15th May 2023
Alex Buabeng-Korsah
TOPIC: DON’T CONFORM BUT TRANSFORM
THEME SCRIPTURE: “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” – Romans 12:2
PREPARATORY QUESTIONS:
- Is it possible for the believer to conform to this world?
- What is involved in the renewal of the believer’s mind?
I have always loved the BBC radio ad that says, "The world is a big place; it is only the BBC that can put the world in your radio." That is brilliant and catchy, right? If the world can be placed in radio, can it be placed in our hearts also? When writing to the believers in Rome, the Apostle meant "world" as the "age" we live in. In every age, believers have the unique privilege and tension-filled opportunities of living in the "evil age." Realizing the tension, some Christians adopt the "greenhouse" mindset and withdraw from society to protect their spirituality.
Others blindly embrace the "evil age." They're completely assimilated.
This is why Paul, by the Spirit, warned us not to conform to this "evil age." To conform is to adjust one’s thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors to match those of a particular group or social norm. It involves changing one's beliefs or actions to fit in with a larger group's or society's expectations, either consciously or unconsciously. Gone are the days when virgins were respected. Today, society abhors the sexually chaste, the uncorrupt, the truthful, the morally upright, etc. Such people have not conformed to the world. The words of Jesus, therefore, come to mind: “You are in the world, but you are not of the world” (John 17:14–16).
Thus, while believers live in the world and interact with its people and systems, they are not defined by its values or priorities.
To transform the world, God's people must maintain contact with it. The kingdom of heaven is like yeast, which a woman took and mixed with three measures of flour till the whole dough was leavened (Matt 13:33). This transformation begins, first, with the mind of the believer. If the mind is not set to transform, it is automatically set to conform. With a well-set mind, the believer can live true and influence the world with God’s values, principles, statutes, and judgment.
Beloved in Christ, to be transformed is to be metamorphosed or changed into another form. Evidently, when this change occurs, everyone notices it. This change can happen when we stay with the word of God. It will reveal our true identity so the world doesn't have to. God's word will reveal our true origin, destiny, and purpose (since the world doesn't know). It is then that we can be God’s agents of change in a falling world.
Precious one, stop imitating the ideals and opinions of the world’s culture around you. Rather, be transformed inwardly through a total reformation of how you think and see the world.
To be born again and hold on to the old (worldly) mindset is a disaster. It is by renewing our minds that we can discern God’s will and live a heavenly lifestyle that is satisfying and perfect in His eyes. Glory to God!
FURTHER READING – 1 John 2:15
Call to Salvation: Today is your day if you have not received salvation by turning over your life to Jesus Christ. Click here to do so
QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU MEDITATE ON THE WORD:
- How much are you conformed to worldly principles and values?
- How much are you influencing the world around you with God’s principles?
CONFESSION
I affirm that I am not of this world but I am set to be a light to it. Wherever I go, my life is bringing meaning, purpose and the love of God to those in darkness. Wherever I show up, darkness flees and evil ceases to advance. Thank you Lord for I am this world’s salt. Hallelujah!
1-Year Bible Reading Plan
Deuteronomy 32; Isaiah 5; Colossians 2
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