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| Extreme Makeover |  |
by Robin L. Anderson
(used with permission)
Do not conform any longer 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 NIV}
When one hears the word “extreme” the tendency is to think of something or someone who has gone excessively above or excessively beneath the norm. Depending on the circumstance this could be a good thing. However, society as a whole dictates what is considered the “norm” - The way one should look, think, or act. Some believe they are inferior when they don’t fit the mold society or certain people have set for them. In fact, society or certain people may label them as “odd” or “different”. The ones considered “different” may attempt to conform into the general public or retreat into seclusion fearing that their true self will never be accepted. Everyone wants to be accepted and loved, but we must be careful from whom we seek approval. To be esteemed by many and not be true to ourselves is not really being accepted at all. {Luke 16:15 KJV}
Recently there have been many stories of people seeking to conform into acceptance. Some seek the acceptance of others, while some seek to accept themselves. There have been news articles and stories concerning people undergoing “Extreme Makeovers”. Physically altering their appearance and becoming visibly changed. People have undergone extensive surgical procedures, risking their lives with the hope of becoming a different person. There are times when surgical procedures are necessary to save lives and to correct life altering conditions. But, there are also times when some people become obsessed with changing their appearance by undergoing multiple cosmetic surgeries hoping to reach perfection. Some are never satisfied with the final result. And they wouldn’t be, for physical perfection is never sustaining. {2 Corinthians 4:18 KJV} Society’s definition of beauty is ever changing.
I read about how a certain country is now performing surgeries to break and then lengthen legs, adding a metal rod and stretching the legs by using what appeared to be no more than an Allen wrench. In that particular culture tall stature currently determines a person’s future success. {1 Samuel 16:7 KJV} Their selection of educational institutions and profession is predetermined by their height. Another culture had increased their surgeries by thousands performing eye reshaping procedures to give patients’ eyes a more rounded appearance. The rounded shape of the eye is currently a sign of beauty in that country.
There are those who undergo gastric bypass surgery to shed away unwanted pounds. The diet that follows the surgery begins with liquids then gradually increases to small portions of solid foods. Regular exercise is also recommended to prevent the body from burning muscle instead of fat and to increase the weight reduction process. There has to be a lifestyle change in order to successfully achieve and maintain the desired results. Support groups are encouraged for patients to deal with the new life adjustments. I wonder if patients considered submitting to the above requirements before experiencing gastric bypass surgery. Would it not have resulted in similar results? It may not be a quick fix, but neither is the journey of surgery and recovery. Besides, isn’t it safer and worth a try before going under the knife? Renewing ones’ mind before instead of afterwards can eliminate physical and financial turmoil.
The ultimate makeover occurs by renewing the mind. Transforming oneself spiritually and mentally results in physical gratification. {Ephesians 4:23-24 AMP} When we work from the inside out and not ignore our inner selves, we become victorious! Real and lasting change starts from within. What we think about ourselves should outweigh how we want others to perceive us. Not one of us is perfect. Each of us requires work. It is easier to fail than to succeed. Not to try at all is an instant formula for failure. If you believe you will fail, you will. We must realize that we have a treasure within us waiting to be discovered. {2 Corinthians 4:7 KJV} Each one of us is a unique valuable original designed with special gifts, talents, and abilities. Renew your mind, Take action, and Stir up your gifts! {2 Timothy 1:6-7 KJV}
Robin L. Anderson – 3/25/2010
www.shininglightworks.com
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