Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the Lord means safety. Proverbs 29:25
Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this 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
That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? Matthew 6:25-26
Therefore, be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. So then do not be foolish but understand what the will of the Lord is. Ephesians 5:15-17
Good and upright is the Lord; therefore, He instructs sinners in the way. He leads the humble in justice, and He teaches the humble His way. All the paths of the Lord are lovingkindness and truth to those who keep His covenant and His testimonies. Psalm 25:8-10
Today's thoughts from today's verses:
I love the way J.B. Phillips translates the Romans passage above, “Do not let the world around you squeeze you into its own mold.” Something becomes molded when it is subjected to pressure and its resistance is overcome. Our desire for the good opinion of the people of the world and our desire for the good possessions of the world become a great cause for why we struggle to resist the pressure the world exerts on us and our being squeezed into its mold. We must come humbly before the Lord and let Him transform our minds and hearts with the “wisdom from above,” so that He is able to empower us to live in ways that are wise and reflect that we are being molded by God Himself into his image so that we might live life fully for His will and purposes.
Today's prayer response from today's thoughts:
Lord, having my life be truly in line with your passions is so dependent on my firm resistance to the pressures from this out of control world that feed and inflame destructive passions. I know that you and your ways (wisdom from above), Lord, are enough for me. Deliver me from seeking security and significance anywhere else. Mold me into your image and help me live fully for you. Amen!
