by[2] “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)
My mum has been a seamstress since I was little. I used to hear her say “pattern” on many designer fabrics she receives from the customers she sows for. Oblivious of what it means, one day, she decided to explain it to her boys. Guess what? It simply means a definite flow of lines in the fabric, which looks the same everywhere. And I think that’s the basic definition of a pattern in everything. After studying how a system works for a while, you can know how to predict its outcomes.
Fortunately, according to scripture, the world has a pattern for which it flows. But many don’t know it. Why? Because it takes the analytical watcher to understand how a pattern works. While Paul in Romans 12:2 cautions believers not to conform to the pattern of the world, 1 John 2:16 opens up what’s in this world that forms its pattern. They are the lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh and the pride of life. If you look at what is going on in the lives of worldly people very carefully, you’ll be able to discern that at least one of these three things is at work in their lives. Talk about the craving for money and to build establishments for personal glory; it’s the pride of life. Talk of people watching pornography and those practising all kinds of promiscuity: it’s the lust of the flesh and the eyes. Any evil thing going on in this generation has its roots in at least one of these things—the lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes and the pride of life—which all form a unit called the pattern of this world.
But there is more. The Bible says as believers, we are in this world and not of it (see John 17:16). So, as long as we are in the world, we will keep interacting and seeing this pattern ongoing. And the moment we forget or lose even just a little consciousness of who God has made us, we can conform to the pattern of the world. That explains why several believers are struggling with secret sins. It’s a loss of consciousness of their divine identity problem, not really a sin problem. As you read today’s Word, constantly remember who God has made you, lest you get into the traps of the enemy.
You’re a blessing.
Prayer:
Father, help me always to remember who You have made me, lest I fall prey to the patterns of this world. In Jesus’ name. Amen!
Devotional Code: KGD – 2025 – 230
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