...be transformed...
"Transform"..."trans" = to change, "form" = shape. "Transform" = to change shape. But how?
Before we move forward to "mind renewal", I would like to look back to the "patterns of this world". For transformation to take place, for our shape to change, for our minds to be renewed, we must understand the power of the patterns. One perspective of breaking the pattern is that of a new believer who gives up their lives of sin to accept a new life in Christ. This is certainly a valid perspective. Paul tells us in Ephesians 4: You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
Paul speaks here in the past tense, to believers who were taught this truth. However, he goes on, to admonish them for current actions: ...put off falsehood ...in your anger do not sin...do not give the devil a foothold...steal no longer...do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths...do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God...get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. He is speaking to people who have proclaimed belief in Christ, and yet have are still conformed to the pattern.
It's tough! "Old habits die hard', 'old dogs - new tricks' all those old sayings are true. But we must look at ourselves and ask; "Am I a different person with Jesus in my life? In what way am I different? How could I be in relationship with the Most High God and not be different?"
Patterns are hard to break. But I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me! (Phil.4:13)
Tomorrow: Breaking the pattern, part III.
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Questions:1. What patterns do you seem to be stuck in?
2. Are you a completely different person than you would be without Jesus?
3. Are there areas in your life not yet transformed?
INTERESTING THOUGHTS:
"Lord, when we are wrong, make us willing to change.
And when we are right, make us easy to live with."
Peter Marshall
"Will power does not change men.
Time does not change men.
Christ does."
Henry Drummond
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