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. Romans 12:2 NIV

When I was a teenager, I loved to sew. In fact, it was much cheaper to make a dress than buy one. I would go shopping to find a pattern I liked, select the right material and head home. Soon I had the fabric laid out, the pattern pinned on and my scissors slowly and carefully cutting. It was my hope that I could sew my garment to match the pattern perfectly. Life has patterns too – in the majority it is media, movies, musicians and philosophies that seem to dictate the patterns of the world today. Godless, immoral, lawless, self-seeking and empty patterns. Peer pressure tries to force us to fit into those patterns or be left out. But do we want what the world proffers? God offers the best pattern for life that we could ever have but doesn’t try to force us to conform. He offers the way of love, kindness, goodness, selfless service and peace. However, to be transformed into that pattern takes a miracle. A heart and mind renewed by the grace of God, makes a square block go into a heart shaped hole. When we are remade by God, we are in sync with his Spirit, and we find it possible to discern God’s will. Be reborn, renewed and guided today, to a life of joy, that far surpasses what the world provides.

photo by cottonbro-pexels