Scripture
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. 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.
Reflection
In this passage we see again both the passive and the active role we play in our relationship with God and the imprint he makes upon us and in us. We are to “not be conformed to the pattern of this world.” This is a choice we make; to cease our conforming to a world in rebellion against the authority of God. Instead we are to “be transformed” a process whereby we are passive, the transformation is something that is happening to us by the Spirit. Both the choice of “non-conforming” and the passive “be transformed” happen in the renewing of our minds, the center of our thinking and reason. How? Fill your mind with the knowledge of God. Read the Bible, reflect on it and apply it to your life, every day. You will change your mind (Ps. Dale).
Thoughts for the day
- In what ways do you feel you need to transform your mind?
- Do you find it difficult to transform your mind into the likeness of Jesus?
- Do you believe it’s sheer will power to transform a person or do you believe you need the help of the Holy Spirit?
- Who can you share this passage with today?
Prayer
Pray for somewhere in the world that needs God’s attention. Flick to a news app or website, and pick a news story to pray for.
