This post is Day 5 in a series of studies about “Renewing the Mind”, I strongly suggest you begin with the introduction to this study, please click here to read it.

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Renewing the Mind – Day 5

Jesus is our model. Do we take His word seriously? Jesus is alive today and still wanting to do the same things, to go against the pattern of the world. He is still looking for followers who will stay with Him and break the mould for Him; are you ready?

Romans 12:2

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed …

The Thought

Just one more day about conforming.

Many of the Old Testament prophets did not conform to the world’s pattern, they were extreme, outspoken and not particularly appreciated. Many of them were rejected, mistreated, tortured, and killed.

Even today in many parts of the world, those who speak out God’s word, or even own a Bible can be subject to imprisonment and torture or death. Many have to watch while their family members are murdered for their faith. There can be a very heavy price to pay for being a believer in a non christian country.

Each of those Old Testament prophets had a small (or sometimes large) following who took what they said seriously. Jesus is the model for us. Do we really take His word seriously? Jesus hardly ever conformed to the world’s teaching, or to the teachings of the synagogues of His day. He was extreme, outspoken, and not always appreciated. What do you think He would say if He visited your church or prayer meeting?

He too, had only a small band of followers who really took Him seriously, and even most of them disappeared when He needed them most to support Him praying in Gethsemane, and while carrying His cross.

Jesus is alive today and still wanting to do the same things, to go against the pattern of the world. He is still looking for followers who will stay with Him and break the mould for Him; are you ready?

Action

Praise God for the models who have gone before us and left us examples of a dedicated life which doesn’t conform to the world’s pattern.

Praise Father God for Jesus who is still alive and working through you and me today.