Many of us our familiar with the metaphor that describes how to boil a frog (not that you would want to). The premise is that if you place the frog in boiling water, it will jump out; however, if you place the frog in tepid water and then slowly increase the heat, the frog will not perceive the danger and will end up getting boiled. My guess is that the frog will jump out anyway. This story is often used as a warning that we can be unaware of threats that gradually arise until it is too late.

The Apostle Paul gives us a strong admonition that we are to renew our minds so that we will not be conformed to the world, but will be transformed to follow God’s will,

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2)

J.B. Phillips presents a graphic translation of the first part of this verse, “Don’t let the world around you squeeze you into its own mold.” This verb implies that we are to immediately stop being conformed to this world, and we are to commit ourselves to consistently transforming our mind. The word “transform” denotes an inward change. This is the word from which we derive the word metamorphic. A metamorphic rock is a rock that has been changed by heat or pressure.

We must be vigilant, for we may not notice our passive drift to the way of the world, it often seems imperceptible. How do I know I’ve drifted off course? Here are four pairs of questions to assist you to see if you’re being conformed to the world or being transformed by a biblical worldview:

World – How can I have a comfortable life?
Biblical – How can I have a life of purpose for God?

World – What is the easiest way?
Biblical – What is the way of greatest significance?

World – What do I want to do with my life?
Biblical – What does God want to do with my life?

World – How can I live for today?
Biblical – How can I live for eternity?

How did you do? Be encouraged that as you renew your mind, that He will transform you to follow His will,

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. (Philippians 4:8)

You have a responsibility set your mind on that which is worthy of praise. As you follow Paul’s advice, you will avoid being conformed to the world and God will transform your life,

Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. (Colossians 3:2)

Associate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University

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