12 I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, on the basis of God’s mercy, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your reasonable act of worship. 2 Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of the mind, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Today’s devotion starts as a word study.
Do not CONFORM. Instead, be TRANSFORMED.
Paul is encouraging his sisters and brothers in Christ to present themselves to God in order to be changed. Conforming to this world (just accepting the status quo) may not get us closer to the will and work of God. But allowing our minds to be renewed, so that we might be exposed more clearly to the will of God, could be the avenue for transformation.
All this starts with seeking God’s presence, Spirit, and guidance in our lives. And it may begin with what you are doing now. Read the Word. Sit in silence. Ask God to speak. Prepare to be transformed.
Prayer
God, I offer You who I am. Mold me. Make me. Use me. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen