“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).
Have you ever wondered:
- Why do Koreans like Korean food?
- Why do Mexicans like Mexican food?
- Why do Americans like American food?
It’s all food. But all tastes very different. How come we like what we like? Why do certain foods give us comfort when it doesn’t do the same for others?
The thing is, we are constantly being shaped by the world we live in. The smells, the sights, the environment…all of it is constantly shaping our tastes, thoughts, and values.
But here is where Christ-followers are to be diligent. Unless we commit to God shaping us by and through God’s word, we will find ourselves shaped contrary to God’s truths.
Above our allegiance to the culture around us, we are to place our ultimate allegiance to Jesus. This takes both intentionality and effort. Being shaped by God’s truths doesn’t just happen. We have to work at it. We have to read and study God’s word. We have to read books, listen to sermons, and discuss with others the truths of God so that God’s truths shape us.
“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 and pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12:2).
Thank you for doing your part by starting with this devotional every morning. Commit to reading and studying God’s word with others. Commit to worshiping God. This is how we work against the world constantly shaping us into its image.
Praxis: Faith in Action 