Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Rom. 12:2)
Many of us, including myself, start our day with time in God’s Word and prayer. It’s a beneficial habit that bears fruit. We often follow a routine during our devotional time. I, too, have a pattern: a brief prayer, reading God’s Word and some devotional material, and extended prayer. Yet, there are times when I feel overwhelmed and frustrated in my confession of sin. This is a shared struggle, one that often leads to dwelling in guilt and mental self-flagellation. It’s a struggle that arises when we forget to remind ourselves of the Gospel and our identity in Christ.
It’s not just about resisting the temptation to conform to the world or allowing ourselves to be molded by it, but also about not succumbing to despair over our sins and failures. One way to combat this temptation is to ‘be transformed by the renewal of your mind.’ I renew my mind by reminding myself of my Gospel identity. My sin is crucified with Christ. The old me is dead. I now possess the righteousness of Christ. God forgives my sins past, present, and future. My acceptance by God is based on the performance of Christ and not me.
Once you grasp the truth that your acceptance by God is never tied to your performance, and you allow your mind to be renewed and transformed by this truth, you can love and obey God without the fear of punishment. This realization brings joy, knowing that your heavenly Father is not looking at you daily, shaking his head in disappointment. No, he loves you with an everlasting love (Jer. 31:3). Rest in these truths, and as they permeate your mind, experience the wonder of God’s transforming power. Choose renewal instead of despair.
The Established Path of Discipleship 
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