“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)

God’s will is not only wise but also “good, pleasing, and perfect.” It is ultimately the best path for our flourishing in a world that has worked hard to remove Him. This is why living according to God’s “pattern” will stand in contrast to the prevailing cultural norms. Here in Romans 12:2, Paul is instructing the Roman-Christians (as well as us today) to stand firm in faith and resist the temptation to “fit in.” But the meaning behind this instruction is just as important as the instruction itself. We are called to reject the world’s pattern so that our souls may be molded by the original sculpture of life. The rejection of right and wrong as defined by man, is exchanged for the sanctified Word of our Lord. In doing so, we become the model of Christ for others to see. Ultimately leading others to the ways of the Savior, all so that they themselves may be saved. This is all transformative for us too, because as we distance ourselves from the world we end up closer to God. This closeness to our creator opens our minds to the discernment afforded to those who not only study God’s word but puts it to action within their everyday lives. Allowing those who know God to have an improved metric for testing His will in situations. In all, Christians are to distance themselves from the ways of the world; not conforming to it but moving closer to God as the alternative. In turn, Christians are likely to stand out and attract others who may be lost and seeking the hope that can only come from God. So today, resist. But not what the world wants you to, instead, resist the world.