“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of the world.” (Verse 2) What does this verse mean to you? If you are a believer in Yahweh, it means that you have a whole new outlook on how you live your life. Think about what the world does. Do you lie, cheat, and steal? If so, you are conforming to the pattern of the world. Do you have unhealthy habits like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and using foul language? Then you are conforming to the world. Seek Yahweh to overcome any thing in your life that prevents you from conforming to Him.
“...Do not think more highly of yourself than you ought…” (Verse 3)
What is your attitude toward other believers? Do they have some personality trait that bothers you so much that you avoid them? While it is fine to lovingly discuss these things with those we have conflict with, we must always remember to take the plank out of our own eye before expecting other brethren to remove the splinter out of theirs. Never think you are more righteous than another person. You may find out differently.
“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving Yahweh” (Verse 11). Don’t let obstacles trip you up. We all have bad days. Having a bad day is no reason to be unspiritual. The Apostle Paul had many bad days, yet he served Yahweh continuously through them all.
“Bless those who persecute you…” (Verse 14). Do not seek to repay evil with evil. Treat even your enemies with kindness. Don’t try to get revenge on anyone. Vengeance belongs to Yahweh alone. Don’t get in His way. He will work things out in His own timing, not yours. Never let yourself be overcome by evil, but instead overcome evil with good. Let us, as Believers, always seek to do Yahweh’s will!