Read
Romans 12: 1-2, "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God – this is your true and proper worship. 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."
Think
Growing up, sometimes it was hard to follow the rules when no one else did. No one wants to be the kid who stands out for fear of being made fun of! It was easy to give in to the pressure even if, deep down, we knew that following the rules would help us avoid trouble and stay on course with what was best for us.
The same principles hold true in following Jesus. God has given us His Word, the Bible, to instruct us on how to live (external) and to transform our hearts and minds (internal). When we take time to read our Bible regularly, God will begin this internal and external change so that we think about and see our world differently. But, living God's way is not always easy – especially when those around us are doing the opposite! We have to remember that God has a plan for each one of us. And His plans are filled with His tangible and intangible blessings, if we will trust in Him.
Act
You've already taken a good step in renewing your mind by reading this devotional – keep it up! Set a daily reminder on your phone to help you remember to read each day's devotional.
Pray
God, help me have the confidence to follow what the Bible says – no matter what everyone around me is doing. Continue to transform my thoughts and perspective. Thank You for the amazing plan and purpose that You have in store for me. Amen