“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
“Conformed” is to be outwardly molded to fit a pattern. Obviously, Believers should not be molded by the ways of this world.
“Transformed” is the same Greek word that is used for Jesus’ transfiguration. God has changed us in our Baptism, and the passive verb form conveys that God does this work.
“Renewing of your mind” implies that God has restored our minds to the manner of thinking He created them to have.
“Testing” is a word that involves testing of metals. We are to examine how to live in a manner “acceptable to God”. The “gold standard” of course for discerning God’s will is His Word.
This verse is the start of several chapters where the Apostle Paul urges us to present ourselves as living sacrifices because it is the proper response to “the mercies of God”. On this side of heaven, we are not fully renewed. We still sin and fall short. So gives us a guide in chapters 12-16 for Christian living. God has shown us His undeserved mercies in Christ. God has transformed our lives in Baptism and continues to renew us daily by His Spirit.
God’s blessings on your day…