FORMED

I have some play-doh in my hands. It's soft, shapeless, and full of potential. You know what's amazing about that clay? It's just like each one of us in the eyes of God. Here's the deal: the clay doesn't decide its shape. It trusts the hands of the Potter to make it into something incredible. In the same way, when we let God mold us, we become a part of His amazing plan.

God wants to transform us into His Image.

Being transformed means to change or renew from a life that no longer conforms to the worlds ways to one that pleases God.

Romans 12:1–2 (NLT)

1 And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. 2 Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

Offer your body as a living sacrifice.

Romans 12:1 “1 And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.”

This means dedicating your entire self – your thoughts, actions, and desires – to God's service.

Strive to live a life that continually reflects your commitment to God. This involves making choices that align with God's will, both morally and spiritually.

Practice being kind and compassionate to EVERYONE you come in contact with.

Respecting authority. This is a HUGE one. Honor and respect those who are above you, REGARDLESS of who is around you. This is a way you honor God.

Have integrity. Avoid lying, cheating, and gossiping.

Serve others. We are having a serve day on November 12th

Pursue a life of learning. Dedicate yourself to your studies and education. Developing their God-given talents and intellect is a way to honor God, as it allows them to use their abilities for His glory.

We are to honor God with our entire being.

Renew your mind.

Romans 12:2 “2 Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”

Paul next instructs us not to conform to the pattern of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. This suggests that as Christians, we should be intentional about renewing our thinking by studying the Bible, praying, and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Christians do not think the way the world thinks. Our mind is the spiritual battle ground between conforming to the world and being transformed by the Spirit of God.

The only other place Paul uses this word for transformed is in 2 Corinthians 3:18: 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. For Paul, this transformation and renewing of our minds takes place as we behold the face of God, spending time in His glory.

How do we do this? Here are 6 ways that are you can do this with things you already do but we do it differently. Regularly engage in spiritual disciplines like:

Bible study. If you say, “Its hard to understand” read a different translation. Open up your bible app and there are a hundred different translations pick one. Also there are amazing studies in the bible app. If you are struggling with anxiety, or wanting to know Gods plan for your life, you can start there.

Prayer helps you to line your mind up with God. Pray for specific things: family, friends, and specific needs you have.

Worship music. What are you listening to? I love music and not all music is bad. But a way to renew our minds is to renew what music we are listening to. Hillsong United, Elevation Worship, Phil Wickham, etc.

Journal what God is teaching you, revealing in your life, and then go back and reflect on your faith Journey. I do this!

Scripture Memorization.

Youtube. Alisa Childers, Mike Wagner, Craig Groeschel, David Guzik, Louie Giglio etc.

All of these can help you to set your mind on God and align your thoughts with God's truth and helps you to discern Gods will for our lives.

Discern Gods’s will.

Romans 12:2 “2 Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”

Paul continues to speak about discerning God's good, pleasing, and perfect will. To do this, we need to be in tune with God's leading and actively seek His guidance in our decisions and actions. It comes from renewing our minds and giving ourselves up to Him daily.

Seek to understand and follow God's will in your daily life. This may involve seeking counsel from mature believers (parents or life group leaders), meditating on Scripture, and praying for guidance when faced with important choices.

closing

Just like clay in the hands of a skillful potter, God desires to mold you into something remarkable, a living testimony to His grace and love.

I encourage you to be intentional about presenting yourselves as living sacrifices to God. Let His Word be the constant renewal of your mind, and never stop seeking His will.

And when you find yourself at crossroads, unsure of which path to take, remember that God is the perfect guide. Seek His counsel through prayer and the wisdom of those who walk with Him.

Invitation

I want to emphasize that the transformation we've talked about is deeply rooted in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. He is the One who can truly mold us into His image, renew our minds, and guide us along the path of His perfect will.

If you're here and have never taken that step of faith to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, I want to extend a special invitation to you.