READ: Job 37,38; Psalms 50; Romans 12
SCRIPTURE: Romans 12: 2 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.
OBSERVATION: Some Christians say, “if only I
knew God’s will for my life, I would have lived a different life.” They may say
it is not easy to understand God’s will. Young Christians are often encouraged
to know God’s will for their life. But they do not receive proper guidance to
find God’s will. In Romans 12, Paul gives two practical suggestions to knowing
the will of God. Paul’s first advice is “do not conform to the pattern of this
world.” As we live in the world, every day, we are tempted to follow the
worldly system to enjoy the material benefits just like others. People, whether
they like it or not, pretend to do certain things. Paul warns against this hypocrisy.
Conforming to the pattern of the world
always does not reflect the reality of life. At first, conforming to this world’s
pattern may appear as an easy way to get things done for us. However, as Christians,
we cannot/should not follow all the worldly practices. As James says, “don’t
you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God?” (Js.4:4). Paul
urges Christians to be transformed by the renewing
of their minds.
How shall we be transformed? This
transformation is not just a change in outward appearance and practices. It is
a spiritual transformation that includes renewing our minds. This
transformation enables us to change our thinking patterns in line with God’s word
and will. When we allow ourselves to renew our minds to be transformed, we will
be able to know God’s will for our lives. Many people assume something as God’s
will and struggle in their spiritual life. Here, the verse says that we will be
able to test and approve God’s will. The word of God and the Spirit of God help
us “to test and approve” the will of God. There is no end to our transformation;
day by day, we “are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing
glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit” (2 Cor.3:18).
APPLICATION: I should not follow worldly and unethical practices
for any material reasons. I must not think as the worldly people think. My
thinking pattern needs to be tuned with God’s word. Finding God’s will is not
difficult when I change the way I think. I can discern and desire God’s will.
PRAYER: Father God, thank you for changing my life,
thinking, behaviors, and desire to fulfill your will. Lord, help me to overcome
worldly temptations and live for your glory. Amen.
- Arputharaj Samuel
+91 9538328573
Day - 232
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