Conformation vs Transformation
“Don’t let the world around you squeeze you into its own mold, but let God re-mold your minds from within, so that you may prove in practice that the Plan of God for you is good, meets all His demands and moves towards the goal of true maturity.” Romans 12: 2 (J. B. Phillips Translation)
The world, society that is, seeks our conformation. The Spirit seeks our transformation. We choose which will prevail. The mind is the facility with which we make the decisions.
Conformation results from external influences. Transformation into Jesus’ likeness results from internal influences. Daily external influences bring pressure on us. Unless daily internal spiritual influences are engaged conformation prevails. Only by daily spiritual influences being engaged is transformation possible. That requires daily, not intermittently, Bible reading and prayer seasoned by regular public worship. Gradual practice results in more instinctive spiritual resources, but not ever completely. You have to grow to know God’s will.
This being such a touchy/feely society we tend to ask ourselves “How am I feeling,” and act accordingly. It is not that acting in accordance with our transformed self doesn’t make us feel good, it does, it is that our human instincts are demanding. They are the first responders to most situations.
Internal transformation results in external proof that God’s will is the best course of action and utterance. The good and acceptable and perfect will of God gives joy and spares regret.
The Holy Spirit is the super charger aiding our internal transformation. Rely on the empowering additive.
“Metamorphoo,” the Greek word describing a metamorphosis, is the word translated “transformation.” It is the process involving a grub coming out of a cocoon with a new nature, that of a butterfly. That happens to us initially in Salvation. A positive daily change of mind is a transformation of thought and behavior.
The word is employed only one other time in the Bible to describe the life of a believer.
“But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.” (II Corinthians 3:18)
Consciously employ your spiritual assets daily to avoid conformity and enjoy the victories resulting from transformed thoughts.
You can be assured the happiest days of your life will be when you have tried to do the will of God as far as you know it to be…”
Winnie the Pooh offers this word of caution, “We have met the enemy, and he is us.” We tend to be our own worst enemy, but we can be our own best friend by being transformed daily.