1 Peter 1:14 -- Live as obedient children [of God]; do not be conformed to the evil desires which governed you in your ignorance [before you knew the requirements and transforming power of the good news regarding salvation].
1 Peter 1:14 is powerful stuff. It led me to Romans 12:2 (at the bottom) as well. Both verses use the same word "conformed" in them. It's the only two places in the Bible this word is used. The Greek meaning is to conform oneself (mind/character) to another's pattern.
These verses remind me how easy it is for us to be pressed into the mold of our old ways and of this world. Even when God calls us to be holy, set apart, different, it's still oh so easy to fall into that mold.
I know for me, and if we're honest most of us know this doesn't happen because of laziness. Laziness is an unwillingness to work or expend energy. Most of us are super busy, non-stop go go go, all day long, until we drop. I believe it's more because of apathy or a lack of enthusiasm or interest in what it takes to NOT be conformed to the world and our old ways. Maybe, I'm wrong, but I challenge you to think about it and pray about it for yourself.
I know it's not easy to be set apart but if Jesus is your Lord and Savior and you believe the Bible is God's Word and Truth, then it's not an option. It's something God tells us to do. Not to be better than, not to become some high and mighty judges, or hateful hypocrites. Heavens NO!
I am nothing without the Lord. I cling to Galatians 2:20 -- I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
We obey Him as little children so we can shine the light of the Good News of Jesus Christ. So, we can show the way to the Door to eternal life, which is Jesus.
I said a lot. If you read this far, then you are tough. Tough enough to really think this through, dissect it, take it to God's word and see what He says to you about it.
Romans 12:2 -- And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be [a]transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you].
コメント