The word transformation comes from the word metamorphosis. A metamorphosis means a change in form. The transformation, or change in form in our lives, begins with renewing the mind. Paul used the word renewing, which means to make new after destruction or depravity. That is a very accurate description of our minds after the Fall of Man.

As we know, the first outside pressure Eve encountered was the lust of the flesh, which attacks the mind. The decay of her mind began before she reached out and took the fruit. She began to question the validity of God's words, and the allure of the fruit and the presumed knowledge the tree offered her outweighed the instigations toward obedience in her mind. How do we know this?  Because: Sin must gain permission from the soul before it can engage the body. Its point of entry and persuasion begins in the mind. In the same way, the transforming of our behavior must also begin in the mind.

Perhaps one of the best illustrations is the contrast between two superheroes who were popular when I was young. It is a great visual reminder of how we act and react when faced with adversity. Every week, the first television program began something like this: "David Bruce Banner: doctor, physician. He was searching for hidden strengths that all humans have, when an accidental overdose of gamma radiation altered his body chemistry. Now, whenever David Banner becomes angry or outraged, a startling metamorphosis occurs."

Then, you would see a picture of David Banner trying to change a flat tire in the pouring rain. As he tries to get the tire off, the tire iron slips, and he bangs his knuckles. Suddenly, his eyes change color, his skin turns green, and he transforms into the raging creature known as the Incredible Hulk. Faced with adversity, he lacked the ability to control his reactions. That is the plight of the depraved mind of man. It is so controlled by outside influences that it can change the nicest person into a snarling monster.

There was another superhero who dates back a little further who was very different. Like David Banner, he was calm and mild-mannered on the outside. But Clark Kent never changed his demeanor. No matter how hard things got or how difficult the circumstances he faced were, Clark was always calm, cool, and collected. If a jet plane was spinning out of control toward the Daily Planet where Clark worked, he would just slip into a closet, pull off his suit and in his bright colored leotards, simply fly off as Superman. He would bring the plane under control and return it and all the passengers safely to the ground.

How could Clark Kent remain so calm in any serious situation? Because he knew that he had a hidden power within that began with a capital "S"-just like we do! Our minds can be repaired so that instead of becoming monsters under outside pressure and influence, we respond in great strength through the inward persuasion of another power that begins with a capital "S"-the Holy Spirit!

With our body, our minds can be influenced by the sensual; but with our Spirits, it can be controlled by the Celestial.  Spiritual leading will you leave behind and your life you will find, will be soon be in a bind; if your mind, with sin you dine, as you rewind and remind on things unkind!