Don't Be a Chameleon | Be a Butterfly

 

By: Paula Short

"I am not asking You to take them out of the world, but to keep them away from the evil one." John 17:15— NASB

Deconstructing ourselves has been on my mind lately. I was reflecting on how when we come to Jesus, we are reminded that we are in the world but not of it. I find the process of Jesus' deconditioning' us from the world fascinating. Before embracing Him, we were molded by worldly values, desires, and actions. We pursued things that promised happiness, only to find ourselves unfulfilled. Money, status, material possessions, pleasure—these were the idols that, in retrospect, consumed me. Can you relate to this?

So, what does it look like to be deconditioned from worldly desires and actions? It means saying no to things we once thought were harmless or beneficial. It means being willing to let go of relationships that are toxic or not aligned with God's will for our lives. It means being intentional about the media we consume, the words we speak, and the thoughts we allow to take root in our minds.

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect." Romans 12:2— NASB

When we truly embrace Jesus, a seismic shift occurs. It's a transformative encounter that challenges everything we thought we knew. The world, with its relentless whispers of 'want' and 'need,' suddenly feels less familiar. The things we once chased after—possessions, status, fleeting pleasures—begin to lose their luster. In their place, we find a new, deeper fulfillment, a joy that transcends the temporary highs of worldly desires.

This can be an unsettling realization. We've spent years, maybe even decades, conditioned by the world's values. Letting go of those desires feels like shedding a second skin, and it's not always comfortable. But within this discomfort lies an immense opportunity for growth.

Jesus, in his infinite love, invites us on a journey of deconstruction. He is the one who gently dismantles the scaffolding of worldly expectations we've built around ourselves. He is the one who exposes the emptiness at the core of our relentless pursuits and offers a more profound fulfillment. It's a fulfillment rooted not in external validation but in a deep connection with Him.

This process isn't about becoming joyless ascetics. It's about discovering a new source of joy that transcends fleeting pleasures. It's about allowing the Holy Spirit to rewire our desires, aligning them with God's will. It's about learning to find contentment in Him, not in the things the world offers.

There will be moments when the old ways beckon us back, whispering promises of ease and comfort. But a strength blooms within us as we immerse ourselves in prayer, scripture study, and fellowship.

Remember 

This is a lifelong journey. Be patient with yourself, celebrate your victories, and don't be discouraged by setbacks. Every step closer to Christ is a step towards a life overflowing with purpose, meaning, and a love that surpasses all understanding.