“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, KJV
The Bible is a truly wonderful read.
This transformation that happens to a Christian is thanks to what the Word can do to a person—the renewing of a mind truly takes place in the lives of every true Christian.
But don’t take this to mean that every Christian out there has gone through this transformation of character—some are still growing, and some may never make it—nonetheless, the transformation is possible when we live according to what is written in the Bible.
And one of the more important teachings found in the Bible is this one:
“15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.”
1 John 2:15–16 , KJV
Instead of focusing on what is available here on the earth, we are to set our affections on things above:
“Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.”
Colossians 3:2, KJV
We cannot have friendship with the world.
This is because friendship of the world is enmity with God.
As it is written:
“Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.”
James 4:4, KJV
Does this then mean that we can’t do anything in the world?
To put it simply, we are in the world, but we are not of the world.
We are here to represent Christ as His ambassadors.
So, where ever God puts you, you are to be His representative.
Just keep in mind that by observing we become changed—so make sure you observe, study and learn of the character of Jesus.
The moment you notice that the world around you is changing you rather than you preaching the word changing it, it is time to change your location and/or material you spend time consuming.
As it is written:
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
Philippians 4:8, KJV
Reflection Questions
Are there areas of my life where I am conforming to the values and habits of the world instead of the teachings of Christ?
What influences am I allowing into my mind daily, and are they drawing me closer to God or farther away from Him?
How can I intentionally renew my mind through Scripture, prayer, and godly living this week?
Example Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your Word, which transforms and renews the mind of those who seek You. Help me not to be conformed to this world or distracted by the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. Teach me to set my affection on things above and to seek first Your kingdom.
Lord, shape my thoughts, desires, and character so that they reflect Christ more and more each day. Give me discernment to recognize worldly influences that are pulling me away from You, and give me courage to separate myself from anything that weakens my walk with You.
Help me to think on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. Let my life be a witness to others as I serve as Your ambassador in this world.
Continue transforming me by Your Spirit and Your Word until my life aligns with Your good, acceptable, and perfect will.
In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray, Amen.
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