God Makes it Possible: Avoiding the Mold
Tuesday, July 28, 2020
Living Free Every Day®
A ministry of LivingFree.org
Today's Scripture
"Don't copy the behavior and customs of the 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." Romans 12:2 NLT
Thoughts for Today
It's so easy to become molded to the world's thinking. Television programs subtly—and more and more often not subtly—dishonor God. They present sinful behavior and lifestyles as normal—over and over again through the months and the years. Without realizing it, we can gradually begin accepting the sinful behavior as "normal."
Other influences—friends, employers, books, movies, etc.—can shape our thinking as well. One real danger has been introduced in the form of books and movies that claim to be Christian and use "Christian-ese" words, but in fact teach things that are totally unscriptural. Generally good teaching is mixed in with the deceptive teaching, drawing many Christians into accepting the whole. Jesus warned us to be careful—that even the elect could be deceived. (Mark 13:21-23)
Consider this …
How can we avoid being drawn into the pull of the world's influences? By letting God transform us into a new person by changing the way we think. We will continue to change our minds, will, intellect and emotions as we obey God's Word. He transforms our minds as we pray, study his Word and make godly choices.
We need to measure every influence in the light of God's Word—and reject those that don't line up. Quit watching the television program. Don't read that book. Choose what is right over what is easy or popular. Be willing to take a stand.
Prayer
Lord, open my eyes to the wrong influences in my life. Transform me into a new person by changing the way I think. Give me a deeper understanding of your Word and help me to live in obedience to your will, making right choices even when they are difficult ones.
In Jesus' name …
These thoughts were drawn from … Stepping into Freedom: A Christ-Centered Twelve-Step Program by Jimmy Ray Lee, D.Min. This twelve-step program is suggested for use in support groups, recovery groups and home groups. It offers help for anyone struggling with a life-controlling problem like drug addiction, alcoholism, sexual addiction, gambling or workaholism. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
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