Do not 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 (NIV)
Facts to Consider:
þ God has a plan for a society that seems to be a “Chapter 13 / Bailout” culture.
þ Just (22%) has never been married and (33%) have divorced at least once.
þ At least 25% of all people have been affected by some sort of marital split.
þ 8 out of 10 businesses fail in the first three years
þ 80% of those within the first year – Why?
þ The greatest step in starting a business is a business plan.
1. “Do not conform any longer…”
Þ It is likely that we will all have to turn around midstream somewhere along the way.
Þ Many times today’s practices negatively affect the outcome of tomorrow.
Þ Is there something that you could stop today that would benefit you tomorrow?
2. “…the pattern of this world,”
Þ Pattern – n. Any thing cut or formed into the shape of something to be made after it.
Þ We see that the pattern of the world has always been a practice to avoid, why?
Þ In those patterns where is there a presence of “unhealthy” thoughts?
3. “…be transformed”
Þ The Scriptures tell us that in more than one passage, that change is the result of a relationship with God through Jesus Christ…why is that so?
Þ Is praying a prayer merely the ultimate pass code for needed change?
4. “…by the renewing of your mind.”
Þ Is the renewal process a matter of mental adjustment or lifestyle change?
Þ The word “renewing” indicates a continual, repetitive process – why not an “easy button” or “quick fix”?
Þ Is Jesus the reason that things cannot be handled in that particular manner?
5. “…test and approve” [choose at each point – (a) Troubled or (b) Spirit-led]
Þ Responsibility (a or b)
Þ Negativity (a or b)
Þ Worship (a or b)
Þ Attitude (a or b)
Þ Self-esteem (a or b)
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