Romans 12:1-2
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God - this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:1-2 (NIV)
Often, we hear Romans 12:1-2 stated as a reminder to Christians to hold firm to their biblical morals and values. However, as quoted from verse 2, do we really know what being “transformed by the renewing of your mind” means? What does that look like in our actions and how do we apply it on a daily basis?
I think it means interpreting life through the lens of God's Word, rather than through your experiences, preferences, wounds, or the opinions of others. A very difficult charge indeed.
Many times, following God's demands as this verse directs, can be contrary to how we many times act and society pushes us. If we routinely follow God’s word our actions can increasingly become more and more in opposition to society norms, which are aimed to appeal to our fleshly desires.
True worship may be nothing more than a belief, which flows over time. What’s true today may not be tomorrow, and what’s true for one person may not be for another. Therefore, many times it is difficult to say anything is morally right or wrong because things can change over time based on personal opinion, culture, circumstances, etc.
Conversely, absolute truth from a Biblical perspective is quite the opposite. It establishes a zero-tolerance line regarding morality—clearly distinguishing right from wrong.
So how do we navigate this disagreement? By routinely taking time to look around at what God has given us, both good and bad, and showing appreciation for our gifts and burdens. Once again, not an easy task, but so worth God’s everlasting blessing.
Questions for Reflection:
- Do you frequently find yourself succumbing to fleshly desires versus what God desires? If yes, when and why?
- Can you put aside today’s distractions and focus on God? If no, why? If yes, when?
- Based on this verse, what can you actively do to focus more on God’s desire?
Prayer
Lord, help us live Your faith and desires. Keep us mindful of what you desire for us and others. Give us the strength to live your desires, regardless of how others and society and may react. I pray that I may take your path in my daily actions and devotions. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen
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