CWW WEEK 29 - Spiritual Discernment - Day 2
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Scripture:
“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)
A Call to Resist the World’s Mould
Each day, we are shaped—by the people around us, the media we consume, the culture we live in. Without realising it, we are constantly being nudged into a certain way of thinking, feeling, and living. The apostle Paul, writing to believers in Rome, gives a strong and counter-cultural command: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world.”
The “pattern of this world” is not just about sinful behaviour—it’s the values, assumptions, and priorities that stand opposed to God. It’s a world that praises self-promotion, lives for instant gratification, and calls truth relative. If we are not intentional, we will be shaped by this pattern. Paul warns us against this subtle drift and calls us to something far better—a life of transformation.
The Power of a Renewed Mind
Transformation, according to Paul, begins in the mind. Not with outward rule-keeping or trying harder to be “good,” but with inner renewal. The Christian life is not about behaviour modification; it’s about being changed from the inside out by the Spirit of God. When our minds are renewed—when our thinking is shaped by Scripture, prayer, and the Spirit—we begin to see everything differently.
This renewed mind affects how we view success, relationships, suffering, identity, and purpose. Rather than reacting to life from a worldly perspective, we respond through the lens of God’s truth. It doesn’t mean we have all the answers, but it means we’re anchored in the One who does.
This process of renewal is ongoing. It doesn’t happen overnight. Just as it takes time for a caterpillar to become a butterfly, so too are we gradually being changed as we walk with Jesus. The more we immerse ourselves in His presence and His Word, the more clearly we think and the more freely we live.
Knowing God’s Will
One of the greatest desires for many Christians is to know God’s will. Paul tells us here how that happens—not through chasing signs or second-guessing decisions, but through the renewing of our minds. As we are transformed by the Spirit, we gain the ability to discern what is pleasing to God.
This kind of discernment is spiritual maturity. It’s a deepening trust that God’s will is not only good, but also “pleasing and perfect.” When we are walking closely with God, we learn to test and approve what aligns with His heart. We begin to make choices not based on fear or pressure, but based on a deep sense of peace and wisdom.
It’s important to note that “God’s will” isn’t always the easiest or most comfortable path. But it is always the best one. His plans for us, even when they involve pruning or challenge, are ultimately for our growth, joy, and His glory.
Daily Renewal, Lifelong Change
Romans 12:2 is not a one-time command—it’s a daily invitation. Each morning we wake up with a choice: Will I conform to the pressures around me, or will I seek to be transformed by God’s Spirit? Will I allow my mind to be shaped by headlines, social media, and public opinion—or by the Word of God?
Spiritual discernment flows from this place of ongoing renewal. As we let go of worldly thinking and embrace Kingdom truth, we become people who see with clarity, walk with courage, and love with authenticity.
May we not be moulded by the world, but transformed by the Spirit—ready to live out God’s will in every part of life.
Reflection Questions:
- What are some specific ways the world tries to shape your thinking that you need to resist?
- How are you currently renewing your mind through God’s Word and prayer?
- When was a time you sensed God’s will clearly because your mind was aligned with His truth?
Closing Prayer:
Dear Lord, Papa God.
Thank You for calling us out of the world’s pattern and into Your perfect plan. Renew our minds today—wash away the lies we’ve believed and replace them with Your truth. Help us not to conform to what is popular or easy, but to be shaped by Your Spirit. Give us discernment to know Your will and the courage to walk in it. May our thoughts, choices, and actions reflect the beauty of a transformed life.
In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Have a great today with Jesus.
Graham Hood
Church Without Walls
