From the desk of Melissa Reinert…
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2
God’s Word tells us in Romans chapter 12, to not be conformed to this world. Conformed means to comply with rules or standards. Simply put, we need to be different. We are to be transformed. We experience this transformation with the renewal of our minds. In other words, we are to be refreshed, rejuvenated, renovated, and restored.
We do this by reading God’s Word. We should also be seeking the Lord in prayer, communicating with Him on a regular basis (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). In addition, as we come into difficult circumstances and decisions, we must have the courage to ask ourselves: What is the responsible response? We do not ask: What do I feel like doing or do I like it? Then, we do it. We do the work. There it is again discipline over default.
Think of Jonah. God called him to go to Nineveh to preach a message of repentance. He didn’t ask what the responsible thing was to do. He didn’t feel like doing it. He didn’t like the idea. So, he didn’t.
In refusing God’s call, He attempted to run from the Lord. Ah, but: “Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me.” Psalm 139:7-10.
Jonah learned the hard way. He went through a horrific storm and was thrown overboard to drown. The Lord had other plans. Great plans.
A great fish, prepared by the Lord, swallowed Jonah up and three days later spit him out safely on shore. Jonah had plenty of time to get his mind right while in the belly of the fish. After being spat out, his attitude was renewed. His relationship with the Lord was restored. Refreshed, He gladly answered the Lord’s call, and the fruits of his labor were multiplied with many saved souls.
Do the right thing. Answer God’s call. Be renewed in His Spirit. Live set apart. Live like Jesus. Live for Jesus.