And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may proved what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. – Romans 12:2
Following up Romans 12:1, let us consider how Romans 12:2 can both challenge and encourage us as ladies. Once again, these thoughts are directed especially toward those who work outside the home, but our lives were not created in categories (work, home, etc.)—these truths are applicable to every setting in which we are placed.
“Be not conformed”
To be conformed is “to fashion alike…to the same pattern; to fashion self according to” (Strong’s Dictionary). Paul alludes to the fact that as human beings, we are always seeking to identify ourselves with someone. Even those who strive to “be their own person” have an image in their minds of how to present themselves.
What does your image look like? Do you realize this fashioning of yourself has both a passive and active component? That is, you intentionally create the person you become, but many factors also press you into a mold as you allow them.
In the workplace one meets people who are lost, people who have no power over the “lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life” (1 John 2:16, God’s definition of “the world”). We as Christians must actively resist the phrases, dress, and mindset of those around us. We are not better than our coworkers, no! Rather, we have discovered, been richly bestowed, the power to overcome the habits to which our fellows are enslaved. It is tempting to not want to stick out, to not agree with conversation, or dress, per se, but also to not allow others to know where our loyalties lie. God has not called us to be chameleons! He has called us to be “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13-14).
Salt and light are obvious; they stand out from the blandness and darkness which is around them. Remember, part of the “good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” is your sanctification!
For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: – I Thessalonians 4:3
Let us wake up to those influences which press upon us to fashion ourselves like them. Our culture does not create ladies who are secure in their Savior and effuse His light and love. Please, as you go to work this week, watch out for the insidious impressions of your environment. Find your model in the Savior who offers to us to learn of Him (Matthew 11:29), for unlike the burden of this world’s demands, His yoke is easy, and His love is unconditional.
To be continued…
Laura started attending Lehigh Valley Baptist Church as a child when her family moved to the area. For years, her primary passion was in nursing and furthering her education. In the midst of pursuing a medical degree, God changed her plans and she married Jonathan Snow (read their story here). Now, she has discovered a special fulfillment from being a wife and a mother! Truly, God’s ways are always for our good and for His glory.
Comments 2
Valuable lessons, Laura…especially the thought that we are salt and light meaning we are to “stand out from the blandness and darkness which is around them.” Thanks for writing!
Thank you Laura! Most like a little salt in their life but it is so much easier for us excuse that fact by going “chameleon” on the world.