In This World But Not Of It — How to Renew Your Mind and Live Set Apart
Have you ever felt torn between two worlds — wanting to live for God, but still feeling the pull to fit in with everyone else? You’re not alone. Every believer faces that tension. We want to honor God, yet our brains crave belonging, comfort, and approval. But Jesus calls us to something higher — to live in the world, but not of it.
This truth isn’t about rules or perfection. It’s about transformation — and that transformation begins in your mind.
✨ Living Between Two Worlds
Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
The world teaches us to measure success by popularity, possessions, or performance. But God’s Kingdom measures success by obedience, peace, and purpose.
Trying to live for both worlds is like playing on two teams at once — divided loyalty always leads to defeat. When we chase worldly acceptance, we lose Kingdom focus. But when we live from our true identity in Christ, we become light-bearers in a dark world.
As Jesus said in Matthew 5:14–16, “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.” You were never meant to hide your light under a bowl of compromise. You were meant to shine.
🧠 Why Change Feels Hard
Here’s where science meets Scripture.
The brain’s amygdala — your built-in threat detector and emotional library — interprets change as danger. Even when you’re trying to form godly habits, your brain may sound the alarm: “This feels unsafe. Go back to what you know.”
But here’s the good news: through repetition and focus, your brain can rewire itself. This process, called neuroplasticity, means that every time you choose truth over fear, your brain strengthens new pathways of peace and faith.
Transformation isn’t instant — it’s a divine partnership between your spirit and your brain, working together through the power of the Holy Spirit.
🐾 The PURR Tool: A Faith + Neuroscience Strategy
Now that we understand what’s happening in the brain, let’s turn that knowledge into action — and have a little fun with it.
For today’s tool, think cat — you know, that fiercely independent creature who ignores you until it decides you’re worth its time. Cats don’t bend to pressure or people-please; they know who they are and move through life on their own terms. When the world pressures you to conform or you’re tempted to perform for approval, it’s time to channel that same confidence and do what cats do best — PURR.
P: Pause and Understand – Stop and ask, “Is this mindset from the world or from the Word?”
U: Understand and Replace – Identify the lie and replace it with God’s truth. Example: “I need everyone to like me” → “I already have God’s approval.”
R: Reflect – Reflect Christ’s peace through your words and actions. Radiate calm instead of pressure.
R: Rest – Rest in your identity as God’s beloved. When you rest, your mind rewires truth into long-term peace.
Each time you PURR, your amygdala quiets, your prefrontal cortex re-engages, and you strengthen the pathways that lead to Kingdom living.
🌿 Living Set Apart with Joy
Being “set apart” doesn’t mean living isolated or joyless. It means choosing God’s way even when it looks different. You can still celebrate, laugh, and enjoy life — but with purpose and peace.
For holidays like Halloween, Easter, and Christmas, remember: it’s not about rules — it’s about representation. What are you celebrating, and who are you glorifying? Every decision becomes an opportunity to reflect the One who lives in you.
🙏 Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for calling us to be light in a dark world. Teach us to renew our minds daily and to live with courage and clarity. When fear tempts us to blend in, remind us that Your Spirit gives us power to stand out. Help us reflect Your peace, joy, and truth in every situation.
💬 Declarations:
I am in this world, but not of it.
I live for God’s Kingdom, not for people’s approval.
My mind is renewed, my heart is steady, and my light will not be hidden.
💬 Continue the Journey
If this message encourages you, don’t stop here — keep your mind renewal journey going!
🎧 Listen to EP 21 — In This World But Not Of It: How to Renew Your Mind and Live Set Apart
📩 Join the Mind Renewal Insiders to get free weekly podcast resources, devotionals, and tools delivered to your inbox.
💬 Join the Mind Renewal Solutions Made Simple Facebook Community for encouragement, discussion, and practical ways to live renewed.
🧭 Explore the Day One of Sobriety Blog for more encouragement and reflection tools.
🧠 Go Deeper with Mind Renewal Coaching and learn how to build a transformed, Spirit-led mindset.
