Do not conform to the pattern of this World

Bible Text: Romans 12:2

Prior to Christ's sacrifice for our redemption we were slaves to sin, doomed to eternal destruction. Upon receiving our freedom we are now new creatures, called to live a life set apart for God.
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. (Romans 12:1)

We who have been redeemed by the blood of Jesus need to be transformed through the Holy Spirit dwelling in us. We have to submit our every being to the Holy Spirit. This transformation is necessary because through redemption we are no longer citizens of this world but citizens of heaven.

Satan who is the prince of this world no longer has power over us (John 12:31). We are therefore not to conform to the pattern of this world. In 1 John 2:15 we are called not to love the world. "Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them."  (1 John 2:15)  There may be an irony where we are living in this world but are asked not to love the world. The world here does not mean planet earth but it stands for the "the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life." (1 John 2:16). Anything that does not give glory to God in heaven should not be seen in us. 

This world is not our home. Jesus is preparing a place for us. We are to live here on earth as strangers, passing through to a better place that awaits us. "Since you call on a Father who judges each person’s work impartially, live out your time as foreigners here in reverent fear." (1 Peter 1:17 ) 

When we live lives consecrated to God, it is then that we can know his will for our lives and live according to it. 

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I commit my life in your hands. Help me to live a life that pleases you. Let me be the light of the world even as I do not conform to the pattern of this world. 

And unto Him who is able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above all that we could ever ask or think, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever.  

Amen!