“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 New International Version.
“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” – Romans 12:2 New Living Translation.
Start with the Mind: Renew to Transform
To Live Life Big, the journey begins in the mind. Romans 12:2 (NKJV) tells us, “…be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” This means that true transformation starts with the way you think. If your thinking remains small, your life will be small. But if your mind is renewed, your life will expand, reflecting the abundance and significance that God desires for you.
The New Living Translation (NLT) of Romans 12:2 puts it this way: “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” To live the life God has destined for you, you must allow His Word to reshape your mindset continually. This is the foundation for living life big—a life filled with significance, purpose, and impact.
Living Life Big is About Significance, Not Materialism!
To live life big has nothing to do with materialism or accumulating wealth. Instead, it’s about living a life of significance—one that impacts others and leaves a legacy. As Dov Seidman wisely said, “When you pursue significance, success can find you.” This means when you focus on making a meaningful impact and adding value to others’ lives, success will naturally follow.
Success vs. Significance
• Success is what you make happen for yourself.
• Significance is what you make happen for others.
The Lord Jesus demonstrated this in His life on earth. Philippians 2:7 (NLT) says, “Instead, He gave up His divine privileges; He took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being.” Jesus’ life wasn’t about His comfort; it was about serving and giving to others, ultimately transforming lives forever.
An Example of Living Life Big: Making an Impact Beyond Yourself
During a recent leadership retreat in North Georgia, I had the opportunity to sell 54 copies of my books. Where did the money go? Not into my wallet or bank account. Every penny went into a scholarship fund for nine medical students at my alma mater who were struggling to pay their school fees. These students were about to take their first professional exams, but due to financial challenges, their academic journey was at risk. By God’s grace, those funds are now making a difference in their lives.
This is Living Life Big!
It’s not about what you have; it’s about what you give. Abundance begins with a mindset, not a bank account. It’s the state of your soul, not the state of your finances.
Save Yourself from HARM, ARM Yourself with ARM [A Renewed Mind]!
Living a life of significance begins with an ARM—A Renewed Mind. However, this transformation isn’t automatic; it requires intentionality. When you were born again, your spirit was saved and made new (2 Corinthians 5:17). But your soul—your mind, will, and emotions—remained unchanged. Romans 12:2 calls us to renew our minds with God’s Word so that we can discern God’s perfect will for our lives. [To be continued next week].
