The No/Yes Proposition

Earlier this night, we reviewed the third week session of becoming a Romans 12 Christian. This session dealt with Romans 12:2. It reads:

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."

So what exactly is this passage saying? In reality, this passage is telling us all why there are so many people who claim to know Christ, yet their lives don't seem to match up with the reality and power that Christ gives to His followers as described in the pages of Scripture. This passage contains a negative command, a positive command, and a purpose clause. The negative command is "do not be conformed to this world." The positive command is, "be transformed by the renewing of your mind." The purpose clause is, "that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."

We are commanded to say no to the world's values, but to also say yes to God's values and Word. When we do those things, God is the one that transforms us from the inside out and we are then able to prove what God's will is. Have you ever wondered why your life is so jumbled around and why you can't seem to fall in line with God or maybe you just have no clue what God's will is? The answer to your issue very well could be that you are saying yes to the world and no to God. You might even say, "Hey, I'm saying no to the world, but still nothing's happening!" Well, this passage tells us that's not all there is to being transformed. It's a two part deal on your end and a one part deal on God's end. God is faithful and will hold up His end of the deal. You tell the world no and tell Him yes, and watch out for the fireworks!

In all honesty, it takes a sincere and seeking heart, one that is surrendered to God, as illustrated in Romans 12:1 (the living sacrifice). By surrendering, you are telling God, "I'm all in. Whatever I need to do, I will do it for You." The process continues then with you rejecting the world's values and its schemes and then accept God's values, be filled with His Word, and commune with Him. Then God works his miracle in you and transforms you into the being He wants you to be; which is one in the likeness of His son!

I want to encourage you to tell God this day or even sometime this week, "I'm all in. All that I have, all that I am, is yours." And then boldly walk in the Spirit, rejecting the world's value system and be filled by God's Word and prayer. God bless you all and have a wonderful week!