Did You Miss the Apostle Paul’s Point?

It’s always fascinating to delve into the profound meaning of a well-known verse. This lesson aims to do just that.

(Romans 12:2)¹NIV New International Version Translations – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

On the surface, the Apostle Paul is telling us to avoid adopting the behaviors and customs of the secular world when they do not align with God’s Truth. This is in direct contrast to what the world tells us. “Don’t be so ridged.” It’s OK to redefine a few sins as nothing to worry about; times have changed. The verse goes on to highlight the significant error here. We are not to transform our minds to the world’s perception of God’s Will. We must learn God’s Will as He defined it and then transform our minds to listen to Him. If we start to unpack this verse, we see the goal more clearly. Let’s pick a couple of God’s Truths that the world loves to rewrite and see what there is to learn about humanity and God.

In Exodus 20:3-5, while Moses was on Mount Sinai receiving the Ten Commandments, the Israelites made a golden calf and worshiped it, saying, “These are your gods, Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt.” That was a big no-no. There were more! The worship of Baal One prominent example is in 1 Kings 18, where the prophet Elijah challenges the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. Then, there was Ashtoreth (Astarte), the goddess associated with fertility and maternity. The Israelites were often tempted to worship her, as seen in Judges 2:13, where they “forsook the Lord and served Baal and the Ashtoreths“. We are not done yet. Let’s add Molech. This god was associated with child sacrifice. In Leviticus 18:21, God explicitly commands the Israelites not to sacrifice their children to Molech. How about one more, Dagon? The Philistines worshiped Dagon, and in 1 Samuel 5, the Ark of the Covenant is placed in the temple of Dagon, leading to the idol’s destruction.

Well, you say we don’t worship false gods anymore! Don’t be too quick to set this sin aside as an Old Testament issue. In today’s world, idolatry is alive and well.

• Technology and social media: Many people spend significant amounts of time enslaved to their devices, often prioritizing virtual interactions over real-life relationships and spiritual growth.
• Work and Career: Pursuing success and recognition in one’s career can become an idol when it takes precedence over family, health, and faith.
• Wealth and Consumerism: The constant desire for more money, possessions, and material wealth can overshadow the importance of generosity, contentment, and spiritual well-being.
• Fitness and Body Image: An obsession with physical appearance and fitness can become an idol when it leads to neglecting other aspects of life, including spiritual health.
• Entertainment and Leisure: Excessive entertainment consumption, such as movies, TV shows, and video games, can distract from meaningful activities and spiritual practices.
• Relationships: Placing too much importance on romantic relationships, friendships, or even family can become idolatrous if they replace one’s relationship with God.

Let’s look at another area of sin that seems ignored. There is adultery, engaging in extramarital affairs (Exodus 20:14). Research from the past two decades shows that between 20-25% of married men and 10-15% of married women have cheated. A 2016 survey suggested that in more than one-third of marriages, one or both spouses commit adultery. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), 20-40% of divorces are linked to infidelity. Some sources suggest that extramarital affairs primarily cause up to 50% of divorces in the U.S.

Are there any other areas you think God is too liberal on? Here are a few more things to think about.

• Lying or bearing false testimony is forbidden (Exodus 20:16). Yet it is commonplace worldwide.
• Desiring others’ possessions or relationships is discouraged (Exodus 20:17). In 2024, global advertising spending is expected to grow by 6.8% year-over-year, reaching $772.4 billion. The entertainment industry thrives on this model.
• Taking another person’s life is a grave sin (Exodus 20:13). Yet, for example, thousands of babies are aborted daily under the auspices of health care and personal choice. Precisely, what are those children being sacrificed for? Nicer cars, bigger homes, more leisure travel?
• Engaging in premarital sex, adultery, or other forms of sexual immorality is advised against (1 Corinthians 6:18). Is chastity still a virtue?
• Child trafficking remains a significant global issue. According to recent estimates, around 12 million children are currently trapped in modern slavery worldwide. This is a crime that happens because our world is filled with customers! We have had a 600 % increase in child trafficking in the last several years.
• Speaking in ways that harm others, such as gossip or crude jokes, is not only discouraged (Ephesians 4:29) but can lead to harmful actions against the victims. Our media has made a business out of this!
• Not keeping the Sabbath day holy is neglecting one’s duty to honor God (Exodus 20:8-11). Do we care anymore about the Sabbath? Or is the Sabbath just a catch-up day?

The question should then become how to align one’s life with God’s Will. That task is an ongoing journey that involves several key practices:

• First and foremost, we must search God’s Word for God’s Truth. You will not find it on social media, in the news, in politics, or our schools. The only Truth that matters is that which God has decided is True! (See Lostpine’s Study: What is God’s Truth?) 
• Next on the list is regular communication with God. This helps you understand His will and seek guidance in daily life. Some call it prayer. Prayer helps us know God’s will and seek guidance daily. It is a way to stay connected with God and align our lives with His teachings. We can seek strength and wisdom through prayer to follow God’s commandments and teachings, even when challenging. An active prayer life is about regular self-examination, ensuring our thoughts and actions align with God’s will.
• The Bible contains insights into God’s teachings and how to apply them in one’s life. The task is not just to read the Bible but to study it. What is the difference? When we study, we take the time to be attentive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Studying offers us the wisdom of countless saints who have come before us and are walking with us today. Finding God’s will is all about finding God’s purpose for us, even when challenged by the “static noise” of the world around us.

You may wonder if there is any significant upside to living by God’s Will. Let’s look at a few of the benefits.

Purpose and Fulfillment: Living according to God’s will provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment. It helps you understand your role in the larger plan and gives meaning to your actions and decisions.

Moral Guidance: God’s will offers a moral compass, guiding you to make ethical and righteous choices. This can lead to a more harmonious and just life, not only in this world but in the next world to come.  John 14:2-3 says: “My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”

Spiritual Growth: Aligning with God’s will fosters spiritual growth and deepens one’s relationship with Him. It helps one become more attuned to His presence and guidance in one’s life.

Peace and Contentment: Following God’s will can bring inner peace and contentment as you trust His plan and rely on His wisdom.

Positive Impact: Living in alignment with God’s will often positively impacts those around you. It encourages love, compassion, and service, contributing to a better community and world. Aligning with God’s will helps you live a life that reflects His values and purposes, leading to a more meaningful and fulfilling existence.

In conclusion, Romans 12:2 reminds us of the transformative power of aligning our minds with God’s will. By not conforming to the patterns of this world and instead renewing our minds, we can discern and embrace God’s good, pleasing, and perfect will. This transformation brings us closer to understanding our divine purpose and provides a sense of fulfillment and direction in our lives. Embracing this verse encourages us to seek a higher path that leads to a deeper connection with God and a more meaningful existence. Let us strive to live by these words, allowing them to guide our thoughts, actions, and decisions, ultimately leading us to a life of purpose and spiritual fulfillment.

Contemplations

• How can people actively renew their minds to align with God’s will in a world that promotes secular values?
  • Ideas to Explore: Consider the role of daily spiritual practices, such as prayer, meditation, and Bible study, in transforming our thoughts and attitudes. Reflect on the influence of media, social networks, and peer groups on our beliefs and behaviors. How can we create a supportive environment that encourages spiritual growth?
• What are some practical steps we can take to avoid conforming to the patterns of this world?
  • Ideas to Explore: Identify areas where you feel pressured to conform to societal norms contradicting God’s teachings. How can you resist these pressures? What do you think is the importance of community and accountability in maintaining a Christ-centered life? How can you build relationships that support your spiritual journey?
• How does understanding and embracing God’s will lead to a more fulfilling and purposeful life?
  • Ideas to Explore: Reflect on personal experiences where following God’s guidance has brought peace, contentment, or a sense of purpose. How can these experiences inspire others? Consider the broader impact of living according to God’s will on your relationships, career, and overall well-being. How does this alignment influence your interactions with others and your contributions to the community?