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“Do not conform to the pattern of this world but…” Romans 12:2

Don’t conform- be transformed! That’s the whole verse: “Do not conform to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Conforming is taking the easy way; transforming is harder, but much more rewarding in the long run, according to Paul. Conforming is like “going with the flow,” “accepting the status quo,” and “falling for the next social fad or politically correct response to life,” when God has so much more that just “conforming.” Transforming, says Paul, happens when I “renew my mind.” I change my way of thinking, I change the way I draw my conclusions, and form my opinions. Sometimes I think, because of my sinful nature, that the easiest way to understand this is to look as a situation, think of my first response, and then do the opposite! “If someone strikes you on the right cheek,” my first response is to “strike back,” if not physically then at least mentally or emotionally. And the opposite is Jesus’ direct solution—“turn the other cheek.” Now THAT is taking some “transforming” of my mind! But as I see it, hard as it is, in the long run it’s going to be better than most of the other solutions to this situation and so many others that life, my society and culture throw at me.

And here’s the really cool part! The result of such transforming and unusual responses to life, says the last part of the verse, “Then you will be able to test and prove what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.” There is apparently some pretty close correlation between understanding God’s will and transforming my mind, training it to think like Jesus. Otherwise my floundering with understanding “God’s will,” often is in reality me just trying to get God to bless my will!

Clarity comes not from conforming but from transforming, and transforming comes when I make sure He has more of my attention and focus than what the demands for conformity the world inflict on me. I cannot conform to the ways of the world; I must be transformed into the ways of Jesus.

Have a great day choosing to be transformed by Him,

Pastor Rich

Quote for the day: "If we do not steadily minister in everyday opportunities, we will do nothing when the crisis comes." - Oswald Chambers

PS Pastor Gua, young adult pastor at CVC, will be in Campus Ministries from 12-2. If you would like to get a female perspective on the spiritual journey make an appointment with Pastor Gua (gmontour@collegeviewchurch.org) or just stop by CM any time between 12-2.

PPS Christ on Demand-is back tonight and every Tuesday! Meeting on the Quad, the theme this year is “Faith, Hope and Love” from 1 Cor 13:13. Another great community worship event. This week will be a scavenger hunt based around the theme.