Definitely Different

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy... do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Romans 12: 1, 2

If I could speak to those younger believers, being conformed at the very moment I write this, what would I say?  Would I join the apostle Paul in urging them to be definitely different?

It's difficult to be different.  Everyone wants to be "different".. nowadays.. which in essence makes them all the same.  When Paul says, "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world," he has more in mind than material things.  I think he is speaking of my life...as God's child...the way I think and perceive life.. and how I chose to live it.

With one short phrase Paul points to the motivation.  "I urge you," he said, "in view of God's mercy."

Only such redeeming love, like that of Christ at the Cross can make me WANT to separate myself from the world around me.  It motivates me to be different...to be transformed.

A close friend of mine journaled several years ago his understanding of this passage.  He said:

"The world does not train us to think Spiritually; in fact, it trains us to think carnally.  The most commonly accepted practice of living as a Christian is to apply spiritual principles to our carnal lives...which is an improvement.... but it's not TRUE transformation.

Transformation...ONLY happens when we openly admit nothing about our carnal thinking is worth saving.. or holding on to.. we turn from that towards the Holy Spirit and what He produces.

Being transformed... definitely transformed....being different... definitely different... is painful...but essential to life in Christ..rather than with Christ."

I agree with my friend, and pray the Lord would fill me with His precious love IN Christ so I am powered to live as His child!