True Conformity

True Conformity

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

Romans 12:2

Often I like to think of myself as self-sufficient and independent. I make my own schedule. I choose what I want to make for dinner. I make my own entertainment choices, too. But the Amish see “dependence” in another way. They depend on one another, but even more, they depend on God.

One verse commonly used among the Amish is Romans 12:2, above. To them, copying “the behavior and customs of this world” means joining with the outside world by driving cars or buying electricity from a power company. Because they refuse to “copy” what the world does, the Amish are actually able to maintain stability within their community. Not driving long distances or using electricity means they have less contact with outsiders, and that gives them a uniqueness that distinguishes them from the “English.”

Where does our dependence lie? Some of us may depend on modern conveniences. Others may depend on their disconnection from those very things. Either way, our true dependence should always be on our God.

Why does God command us not to copy the behaviors and customs of the world? Because God desires that we see life from His point of view. In this world we often long for perfection, but that’s possible only in the world to come. And the way we’ll find it is by focusing on the One who is good, pleasing, and perfect. As we more and more desire to do God’s will, we will find ourselves being molded into God’s way.

Dear heavenly Father, too often it’s easy for me to focus on all the “don’ts” in the Bible. Instead, help me to live my life in conformity to Your will, Your way, Your Kingdom. Help me to become more dependent on You day by day. Amen.