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

Years ago we had a house fire. I never liked the kitchen galley we had and took the opportunity to design a whole new open floor plan kitchen. We made all the decisions and we ended up with what we wanted.

That is not what happens in Romans 12:2 in the way of renewing of your mind. Yes it is a renovation but it is more like the television show Flip or Flop. The couple buy into the renovation but then leave and have nothing to do with the project. Everything is left in the hands of the contractors, the flippers.

The flippers discover and handle problems. They strip out the rotten and replace with healthy. They deal with everything that is a problem and bring the structure up to code. This is more than just throwing a fresh coat of paint but rather stripping everything down to the bones and making everything sound.

Once we have accepted Jesus Christ into our hearts the renovation process begins. We do not move out but the Holy Spirit goes about doing the same thing in our minds like the flippers. The first thing that has to happen is exposure of weaknesses, rotten attitudes and habits. These are foundational problems that prevent us from presenting our new image which is Christ in us.

In many ways I’d like to hang a sign around my neck at times which says “under new management, excuse the mess while we renovate”. While I have been pleased with what has been changed so far He is not through with my renovation.

Perfection coming soon.