Renewal Begins with Breaking Free from the Patterns of this World - Ep. 337
Renewal is not about becoming new people as much as remembering who we already are in Christ. Listen in as I read these words from the apostle Paul to the church in Rome. He was writing to the Romans but so much of it applies to us today as well. Read Romans 12:1–2 Focus: Step 1 of renewal—stop conforming. What Does “Conform to the Patterns of This World” Mean? Ephesians 4 mentions some of the patterns of this world: In vs. 22 on down You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires. What do the Patterns of this world look like for you today?? Busyness = that somehow how busy your calendar is defines your worth and value PERSONAL COMFORT-That somehow your personal comfort matters more than your character IMPULSIVE REACTIONS-That its ok to just impulsively react rather than intentionally and thoughtfully respond IDENTITY-Who you are is what you do SELF SUFFICIENCY-That its weakness to surrender and be dependent on God. You somehow have to muscle up and do it all yourself. STRIVING FOR MORE- rather being content with what we’ve been given. Key Truth: The truth is most families don’t consciously choose worldliness—they slowly absorb it. We become kind of like a chameleon based on what or who we’re around. Step 1 of Renewal: Awareness Before Action You can’t renew what you don’t recognize. Practical Reflection Questions for Listeners: What voices are shaping our values more than Scripture? What patterns feel “normal” but don’t feel life-giving? Encouragement: Awareness is not condemnation—it’s an invitation. Advice Practical Ways to Stop Conforming: Interrupt the Noise around you and Evaluate Evaluate: Media intake Social media rhythms News consumption Ask: Is this shaping my peace or stealing it? Practical Tip: Try a weekly “noise fast” (one evening with no screens, just presence). Slow Down to Notice What’s Forming You Renewal requires margin. The world disciples through hurry. Practical Tip: Build in “pause points”: Morning prayer before phones Family check-ins at dinner Sabbath rhythms (even imperfect ones) Name the Lies You’ve Normalized Examples: “This is just how families are.” “We’re too busy to change.” “It’s not that big of a deal.” Truth: What you don’t challenge, you allow to shape you. Offer Yourself Again Tie back to Romans 12:1: Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Renewal begins with surrender Simple Prayer: “Lord, I offer You my mind, my time, my reactions, and my family rhythms.” Hope-Filled Reframe: Renewal Is a Process Paul doesn’t say “be instantly transformed” He says “be transformed by the renewing of your mind” Encouragement for Families: Small changes matter Consistent choices build new patterns God is patient and present in the process Call to Action: Commit to one small shift this week Write it down! Pray over it as a family Closing Line:“Renewal doesn’t start when life slows down. It starts when we choose to stop drifting and start offering ourselves—right where we are.” rocksolidfamili Support the show #Rocksolidfamilies, #familytherapy, #marriagecounseling, #parenting, #faithbasedcounseling, #counseling, #Strongdads, #coaching, #lifecoach, #lifecoaching, #marriagecoaching, #marriageandfamily, #control, #security, #respect, #affection, #love, #purpose, #faith, #affairs, #infidelity