Transformation
“Do not be conformed to this world,
but be transformed by the renewing of your mind….”
Romans 12:2
What does it mean to be transformed and how do we go about it? Transformation is not someone growing or becoming better; it is literally changing from one form into another altogether. We can try to be more loving, more peaceful, more joyful, more forgiving etc…, but in our own strength, in our old self or old nature, we are not able to keep that up long term or in the really tough times. But when we are transformed into a new creature or creation (2 Corinthians 5:17) then we can exemplify these characteristics over the long term and in the hardest of circumstances. Why? Because we are transformed from a sinner into a saint. And a saint is filled with the Holy Spirit. Now we have a choice – to sin or not to sin.
Think of it this way. A caterpillar cannot decide to fly because it does not have wings. It must remain crawling on the ground or on trees. But when it is transformed into a butterfly, then it has a choice! It can now fly or choose to continue to walk on the ground. How sad to see a butterfly walking in the mud when it could be soaring into the heights!
You are transformed by the renewing of your mind. Your mind is transformed by the Holy Spirit through God’s Word. As you read and study and pray and seek and walk you are being transformed. Transformation is a one time act and an ongoing act. We are transformed immediately when we ask Jesus to be our Savior and ask Him to come into our hearts and be in control. But we are being transformed as we study the word and walk in God’s way. You are transformed into a baby saint immediately! But then, you must grow and continue to be transformed in the mind so that your actions match your being.
Philippians 4:8 holds the key to continuing the transformation process after you become a new creation. “Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.” Be transformed by the renewing of your mind by thinking on the Word of God – it is all of the above! God through the Holy Spirit will retrain your brain. You will think new thoughts and learn to replace the old lies with God’s eternal truths.
Hint of the Day: It is a great idea to have your kids observe a caterpillar becoming a butterfly. Then they will be able to understand this foundational truth of God’s Word. You can order kits from various science stores, or try to find one in the wild. Make sure that you and your kids are dwelling the Word daily as you walk and stand and sit. As it becomes habit for you, they will pick it up and it will become their habit as well.