Do Not, But Be

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. (Romans 12:2, NIV 1984).

My Musings – Just a portion of an oft quoted text. A favorite of mine and many others. It hardly seems like it needs any elaboration, as with the possible exception of recent converts, most are familiar with its meaning. Yet we mustn’t become complacent with foundational texts such as these, as there is always the danger losing our edge and drifting back into conformity.

• Do not – An imperative.
• Conform – Behave according to (comply with) socially acceptable conventions or standards.
• Pattern – A reliable sample of traits, acts, tendencies, or other observable characteristics of a person, group, or institution.
• World – The concerns of the earth and its affairs.
• But – Used to introduce a phrase or clause contrasting with what has already been…