Devotion #2: Being Conformed

“For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified.” Romans 8:29–30 

Of all the words in this passage that catch your attention, I would like you to focus directly on one particular word. The word “conformed” is an interesting word used by Paul. According to the Oxford Dictionary, conform means to “comply with rules, standards, or laws.” This is an interesting perspective, considering all the conversations about the different laws Paul talks about in previous passages. The Greek word used according to Strong’s Dictionary is defined as “jointly formed; conformed to, fashioned like unto.” 

Wow! What an amazing passage! Consider what Paul is writing in this passage. The phrase “to be conformed to the image of his Son” is absolutely incredible for us to wrap our minds and hearts around. In all of the conversations and passages we have read so far in Romans, this single phrase is a pinnacle teaching of Paul. It is saying that we, through the power of the Holy Spirit, will be able to behave, act, speak, think, and talk like the Son. That is to say, we will be conformed. We bear His image; we are changed from an image that is contrary to God to an image that is in complete unity. This conforming makes us all start to look like we come from the same family. It is the family of God, and the pinnacle example of that family is Jesus. Even though we come in different shapes, sizes, and colors, we will be called brothers to Jesus. I love that Paul says there will be “many brothers.” 

Despite all the different baggage we bring and the different anxieties we carry, the power of the Holy Spirit is to give us victory over the flesh, over the sinful nature, and allow us to be conformed. 

Today, take some time to evaluate how much you look like Jesus. Is His character and behavior visible to your family? Is it evident in your workplace? Do your neighbors see the amazing character and love of Jesus in you? This is only possible when you submit to the Holy Spirit’s leading, guiding, and conviction in your life. It is, as Paul is showing us, the way to have victory!