Transformation Begins in the Mind

And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you]. (Romans 12:2, AMP)

When we decide to take Romans 12:1 serious and become Instruments of Worship, then we can follow Romans 12:2 fairly easily.  When we learn to offer our bodies as living sacrifices to God, wholly devoted to His purpose… then we find ourselves less and less conforming to this world.  We start to look a little different.  Our hearts long for God and His purpose.  We start to see the world a little differently and somehow it doesn’t ensnare us quite as easily.

As our love for God increases, our love for this world should decrease.

“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world–the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does–comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.” (1 John 2:15-17)

Romans 12:2 goes on to say that we are to be transformed by the renewing of our minds.  The transformation of our lives begins in the mind.  We cannot fully be devoted to God until we transform the way we think.  The Bible calls us to take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5), to set our minds on things above not on earthly things (Colossians 3:2), and to think things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praise-worthy (Philippians 4:8).

Does your mind need to go through a transformation?  I know my mind daily has to be renewed by God’s Word.  There is only one thing on this earth that can renew the way you think and that’s the Word of God.  The Word of God has the power to be living and active in your life (Hebrews 4:12).  It can cut through every thought that does not bring God glory.  I challenge you to take time in God’s Word.  Daily renew your mind by meditating on God’s Truth.  Allow God’s Truth to take root in your life and change the way you think.

When your mind is renewed by the Word…  Then and only then will you be able to test and approve what God’s will is for your life.  God’s will is good, pleasing, and perfect.  He has an amazing plan for your life, but you need to get in to the Word to find out what that is.  Don’t let another day go by without getting into God’s Truth and finding out what He has for you there.

“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” (Psalm 119:11)

For more devotionals like this one you can purchase my book Victorious Mindset.

Lord, please show me where I’m conforming to the patterns of this world.  Please transform the way I think.  Renew my mind and help me walk more uprightly before You.  May Your Word be hidden in my heart, so that I can test and approve what Your will is for my life.  I know that Your will is good, pleasing, and perfect.  I desire to follow you completely! 

Your Will be Done,