by Jordy van Gaalen

Outward and Inward

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this SoundCloud link.

“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

In this verse we are instructed not to follow the outward appearance of this world. This world is fleeting and ever changing. Fashions, perceptions, and social norms of culture come and go. We are told not to act like people who do not know God. Everything we do, the way we conduct ourselves, should reflect Jesus and His love. 

The first part of this verse compares the outward and the inward appearance. We are not to outwardly resonate with the world, but to inwardly be transformed. The definition for “transform” is to change in composition, outward form, or character. 

We are transformed and renewed by the Holy Spirit. This transformation affects our conscience. We begin to outwardly see the world differently, because inwardly we have been made new. Our perspective shifts as we are filled by the Spirit and our eyes are fixed on Christ Jesus. As we are inwardly transformed, our outward actions should follow in a way that becomes a witness for what God has done in our lives. This is the Spirit working through us.

This renewal of our mind – our change of heart and change of perspective – should then affect our actions. Our conscience has been transformed by Christ. Our eyes and conscience then see God’s will in a new light. God’s will is for us to love Him and love others, the two greatest commandments because they sum up all of the Ten Commandments. 

God’s plan is perfect and good. He has designed us and created us and loves us. As this love resonates within us, He desires for that love to be poured out onto others as an act of also loving our Heavenly Father. 

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado