“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2 (NIV)
When I went to college, I recall taking many classes for which I didn’t see the practical use. As a business major, it made little sense to me then why I should learn the poetry of Byron and Keats. I didn’t realize until much later that in studying those things not in my area of concentration, I was expanding my world.
While poetry was not directly relevant to business, it profoundly impacted my thinking. Engaging with poets' works helped me develop a deeper appreciation for beauty, emotion, and the human experience. It taught me to see beyond the surface and understand the power of words and ideas. This broadened perspective allowed me to approach business problems with a creative and analytical mindset. It honed my ability to think critically, appreciate diverse viewpoints, and communicate more effectively.
Exposure to the arts taught me to embrace ambiguity and explore unconventional solutions. These skills are invaluable in the ever-evolving business world, where innovation and adaptability are key. In retrospect, those poetry classes were not just an academic requirement but a crucial part of my long-term personal, professional, and spiritual growth.
This growth aligns with Paul's call in Romans 12:2 for transformation and renewal of the mind. Just as the arts allow for different ways of thinking and broadening perspectives, spiritual disciplines such as prayer, meditation on Scripture, worship, and fellowship with other believers help renew our minds according to God's will. Through studying God's Word, we learn of His will for humanity. By meditating, we reflect on our lives and how we can follow His will. In prayer, we have communion and converse with God, seeking His wisdom and guidance. In fellowship, we foster and support one another in faith. These practices enable us to break free from the patterns of this world. By embracing new ways of thinking and engaging in these spiritual practices, we can better understand God's good, pleasing, and perfect will for our lives.
Ultimately, allowing God to transform our minds equips us to tackle life's challenges and opportunities with a renewed spirit. It's about being open to growth, embracing the unknown, and trusting that each experience plays a vital role in our overall development and purpose, no matter how seemingly irrelevant.
Heavenly Father, we thank You for your wisdom and guidance through Your Word. Help us to not conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Grant us the willingness to embrace new ways of thinking and to seek Your good, pleasing, and perfect will for our lives. May we grow in our personal, professional, and spiritual lives through the practice of spiritual disciplines such as prayer, meditation, worship, and fellowship. Guide us as we navigate life's challenges with a renewed spirit and trust that each experience plays a vital role in our overall development and purpose, no matter how seemingly irrelevant. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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