Romans 12:2
J. B. Phillips paraphrased Paul’s words memorably:
“Don’t let the world around you squeeze you into its own mould, but let God re-mould your minds from within, so that you may prove in practice that the plan of God for you is good, meets all his demands and moves towards the goal of true maturity.”
True contentment in Christ does not mean becoming rigid or unmoving. Instead, it asks a searching question: whose likeness is shaping us?
The world—with its restless values, constant demands, and relentless pace—seeks to press us into its mould. Yet even within the church, the weight of schedules and expectations can do the same.
I once read the story of a Christian teacher who confessed how much his life was ruled by the clock. School began at 8:00 a.m., and he was always there by 7:30. Classes ran with military precision, and after the school day, music lessons and tutoring filled the afternoon. Even Sundays were governed by the hour: preaching at 8:00 in one church, rushing to another by 10:00. Week after week, the rhythm of his days was dictated by the clock. Only later did he realise how tightly his schedule had come to control him.
Paul’s warning is clear: we must not allow ourselves to be pressed into the shape of any system—whether secular culture or even church busyness. Instead, God calls us to a different kind of formation: a renewal of the mind. His Spirit reshapes us from within, through His Word and His truth, so that our lives reflect His goodness in practice. Transformation is not only about what we believe; it is about how we live—showing that God’s way is life-giving and leads us into true maturity.
When we yield to God’s remoulding, we discover a contentment not rooted in schedules or achievements, but in being aligned with His will.
Prayer
Lord,
Keep me from being pressed into the world’s mould—
whether through its demands, its busyness, or its values.
Renew my mind daily with Your Spirit and truth,
so that I may discern Your good, pleasing, and perfect will.
Shape my thoughts, words, and actions
to reflect Your character,
that my life may witness to Your goodness
and grow into the maturity You desire.
Amen.
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