The God that made us, can also remake us

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Romans 12:2 (NIV) - 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.

Renewing our minds can be like renewing furniture. For example, there comes a time in the life of every table where the elements around it has caused it to lose its finish. Romans 12 refers to it as conformity. Everything that is exposed to the elements long enough will eventually conform to what surrounds it. One definition of the word conform means to “comply.” In the case with the table, unless it is restored, it will begin to comply to the elements around it, exposing it to rot, and eventually destruction.  

We are no different. This is why Paul was adamantly expressing the importance of renewal. Pick whichever word you prefer: restore, return, renew, revive. Each of these words share the prefix word “re.” This comes from Latin origin and literally means, “again, or back.” The walk with Christ is one of renewal -- one filled with a constant need to “revive.” By pressing in, pursuing God, and “reapplying” ourselves, the Holy Spirit will begin to revive our hearts, revive our minds, revive our souls, and revive our physical bodies. Psalm 119:25 reads, “My soul clings to the dust; revive me according to Your word.” If we want revival in our lives, our churches, and in our world, I believe that it begins when we “revive all” within ourselves.  

If God were to “revive all” of you in 2018, what areas of your life would that include? Over the next few minutes, mentally process this question. Then write out those areas where you need God to revive you.