In His Presence #21: Live Differently -

“Live Like No One Else.” I just read that on someone’s car. It was a bumper sticker from Dave Ramsey. I know the premise behind that sticker is that we need not go into debt feeling like we have to keep up with the “Jones.” But, I think, as Christians we could take that slogan even further.

The Bible says:

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2, NASB

John MacArthur’s Study Notes helped me to analyze this verse and what a neat word picture it painted! The word “conformed” means our outward doesn’t match our inward, but instead our outward matches “this world.” How often do we do things just because it’s the “thing to do.” Do you almost methodically sign your children up for soccer just because that’s what everyone in town does or do you stop to think if it’s the right thing for your already busy family’s schedule. And how about Facebook…okay, I won’t go there. You get the idea. Dare to live differently!

The Greek word for “transformed” is where we get our English word metamorphosis. It refers to a change in outward appearance. Matthew uses the same word to describe the Transfiguration (Matthew 7:2). We need to be sure our outward is changed to reflect our convictions.

“Renewing of your mind,” can only occur as the Holy Spirit changes our thinking through “consistent study and meditation of Scripture,” according to MacArthur. He goes on to note that the renewed mind is one “saturated with and controlled by the Word of God.”

So how can we live differently?

We need to be sure our outward matches our inward. And that can only be achieved by the Holy Spirit as we consistently read the Bible and pray, or in other words, by getting “In His Presence.”

I’ve created another poster for you as a free download this week. Romans 12:2.

Don’t forget to link up today and let us know what God says to you as you spend time In His Presence.

Kathy Hutto is a wife, homeschooling mother, entrepreneur and author. You can visit her blog at Toddler Bites. Visit Kathy’s blog today for ideas on how you can help your whole family “live differently” during the month of March.

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Reading God’s Story Schedule today, 3/01/13: Numbers 17-20.

Weekend Reading: 3/2/13: Numbers 21-24 3/3/13: Numbers 25-28

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