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 12:2
Today we’re going to look at one of the most foundational scriptures when it comes to renewing your mind. Turn in your Bibles to Romans and read chapter 12 verse 2. I love how the amplified version reads:
“Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you].”
The word conformed is the Greek word suschematizo which means “to fashion alike” or “the same pattern”. What this verse is explaining is that we are to be completely different to the unbeliever. Where do we begin? It’s very clear: THE MIND. Our thoughts, meditations and daydreams should look completely different from those who are not following Christ. Our mind should become like Jesus’ mind, being fashioned like His, cut from the same pattern.
He gives us hope in all of this! He uses the word “transformed” which gives us an understanding of how this happens. This is another Greek word metamorphoo. You may recognize it — it is from the same word that we get
the word “metamorphosis”. It describes a comprehensive change, one so extensive it’s like a caterpillar changing
into a butterfly! Doesn’t this give you hope? The fact is our minds are not changed immediately and our thoughts do not change overnight. However, if we apply God’s Word to our lives, with faith in our hearts, it will happen over time. Our thoughts will begin to line up with His thoughts and our mind becomes renewed! It’s only a matter of time. So much of what God does in us is not an immediate work, but a work that happens over time; requiring trust, obedience, reliance and perseverance. It’s a relational work, not just a restorative effort. He wants to partner with us and teach us about Himself in the process.
