Refresh the MindSample

DAY 3: Conformed to the World vs. Transformed by His Word - by Jordan Denton

We live in a world that champions sin, and at times this can greatly impact our minds through the constant exposure of a lifestyle of sin — whether on social media, amongst friends or around us.

In medical research published by Baris Afsar, the average person spends at least 2 hours a day on social media, and within their research there was an even greater correlation between social media and anxiety leading to difficulties sleeping as well as lessened cognitive function. This research reveals how easy it can be to expose ourselves to content that wants us to conform to the world & its patterns.

You may read this and relate to this study, or you may have even lessened your social media intake. It is a great reminder of the fruit of what we spend our thoughts & attention on. 

Romans 12:2 speaks to us about being careful and recognising the patterns of the world we live in, speaking directly to how we spend our time, and how easy it can be to be conformed to the pattern of the world. 

In Galatians 5:19-21, Paul makes reference to the patterns of the world and the fruit of being transformed by his Word with a renewed mind:

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”

We are given guidelines on how to live our lives in step with the Holy Spirit, pursuing the fruits of the spirit and trusting that this is what is best for us. 

There are accounts of the early church fasting to take time to be in prayer to not be conformed to the world, but be transformed by His Word. This is a great example of giving up something to help renew & refresh your mind by spending more time with Him.

As we submit to his Word and live according to the Holy Spirit, we are set free from the world’s patterns and we are able to live according to his good and perfect will.

The evidence is in the fruit.

Questions:

(1) Which area in your life do you find easily conforms to the world’s patterns? How have you seen it impact the way you think?

(2) Paul urges us throughout Galatians to spend time devoted to prayer and meditating on the Word. How can you practically do this today?

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, As we meditate on your Word help us to refresh and renew our minds to think more like you. Help us to live according to your Holy Spirit, and be with us as we endeavour to rid ourselves of the patterns of this world & be transformed by your Word. In Jesus' name, Amen.