Weekly Devotional: Transformed, not conformed (9 in Romans series)

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 12:1–8 (NIV)

In chapter 12 we reach another of Paul’s pivotal words – “therefore” – and this one is grand for it signifies a change from him exploring the great theological concepts we’ve seen in this letter to their practical implications. What does it mean, then, for us as Christians to be sinners saved by grace? How then shall we live?

To please God we offer our bodies as living sacrifices, and we are not to conform to the world but be transformed by the renewing of our minds. We may know this passage well, but do we fully understand it? One interpretation of offering our bodies has to do with the sacrifices required in the Old Testament. Now with Jesus taking away the curse of our sins, we can present ourselves as living sacrifices in the place of the dead animals once offered up. Part of our humble sacrifice can be made through Paul’s exhortation in verses 3 and following – don’t think more highly of yourself than you ought, and remember that the body has many members who all need each other.

And our transformation begins through the renewing of our minds, for our thoughts and our beliefs shape our behavior. As God’s Spirit lives within us, he ushers in changes to the way we think and approach the world. For example, whereas before we may have been defined by fear or anger, now we can feel comfort and peace. Of course, transformation is a life-long process, and we won’t feel perfect peace all of the time. But moment by moment, bit by bit, the Lord works in our minds, hearts, and souls. As we center our thoughts on him, we are changed.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, mold me and shape me; make me anew. Renew my mind, that I might bring you glory.