I think I’ve been coasting through life lately. I’m contemplating what the apostle Paul wrote in Romans 12:1-2 and wondering how it’s challenging me to grow today.

“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. 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.” (ESV)

How can I present my body as a living sacrifice, today? This is kind of a hum drum day. I’ve got some errands to do, and a business phone call, and a trip to the chiropractor, alongside my home office work. My adult children all happen to be home for a couple of weeks, so we’re enjoying each other.

But the Word says I need to be transformed by the renewal of my mind, in order for me to discern what the Lord’s will is for me in this moment, in this day.

I’ve already done my Bible reading for the day, but I don’t feel particularly renewed or different. Actually I realize that I haven’t sat down to pray, spend time with the Lord, intercede for others. I can see that instead of tackling my to-do list, I need to talk to God for a while and let Him renew my mind, shifting it out of its regular path. After all, if I’m stuck in my habits, I’m not growing, am I?

Lord, have mercy on me, and turn my heart towards You. I need Your help.