Today’s blog is going to be an insert from my own personal devotional journal. I sometimes use the acrostic “SOAP” (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer). Hope you enjoy.

//Scripture:

Do note conform any longer 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

//Observation:

This world has it’s own pattern to follow. It is a pattern of selfishness, destruction, deceit, and evil. In business we are always trying to get to the top by any means necessary. In sports we are trying to the the edge no matter what it takes. We are not supposed to live by the rules of the world’s standards. We are not to worry about what is cool, popular, or attractive to the world. We are supposed to be completely transformed by God to His standards. Once we do this, we will know His perfect will for our lives.

//Application:

Personally I have let some of the world’s standards shape my way of thinking. I need to commit myself to a deeper study of His word to focus in on my own transformation. I know that the renewing of my mind is a daily process and will be as long as I live. I am constantly in a struggle with my flesh and those desires, but it is the renewing of my mind that will help push that aside. I must constantly focus on what God wants and not what I want.

//Prayer:

Lord renew my mind. I want to experience your perfect and pleasing will for my life. Amen