Have you ever watched a butterfly break from its cocoon?
It’s quite remarkable–and the first time, a little frightening.
As first, her wings are folded and damp. She doesn’t fly right away. Instead, she must pump blood to her veins to dry out her wings. To see her in those first moments, you may assume she’s broken or somehow injured. But after her wings dry, she does what she’s made to do and flies away in search of nectar.
We often view the butterfly as a symbol of hope and freedom. Transformed from its old life as a caterpillar, the butterfly reminds us of our new life received through Jesus Christ.
But what if our butterfly had been a conformist?
Led by peer pressure, what if she’d waited for permission to break from her cocoon?
Looking in her full-length mirror, what if the butterfly compared her new scrawny wings with those of her other sister butterflies who’d already taken flight?
What if she’d taken another’s advice on prepping her new wings?
What if she’d simply given up, without ever attempting to fly?
[Tweet “Conformity keeps us living within the same mundane lives as everyone else. “]
Following the world’s advice controls us.
Comparisons cripple our progress.
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.Romans 12:2 NKJV
Follow the example of a butterfly’s nonconformity.
Our minds can only be renewed and readied for our purpose by our Creator. God works the transformation. Just like the caterpillar in her cocoon, our only work is to wait within His promises.
When we choose to rest in His truth, listen to His voice, and follow His lead, He breaks away the weights that were holding us down and readies us with new wings to fly.
Waiting on the world’s opinions, the butterfly would have missed her moment. Follow the example of a butterfly’s nonconformity. Listen to His Truth and learn to fly.
[Tweet “Conforming to the world confines us. God’s transformation sets us free.”]
How is God transforming you?
Leave us a comment to share your story of God’s transforming power.
Mitzi, this is wonderful. Thank you so much for linking up with Transformed Tuesday today. We’re blessed!
Elisa,
Thanks for hosting.
So encouraged by your words and grateful to link with such a great site.
Happy we’re in the same neighborhood! 🙂
Good stuff, Mitzi. I think God is conforming me in the area of trust. Things rarely work out according to my plans, but His timing is always perfect and His ways are always best. I have to remind myself of that when I feel like I’m spinning my wheels. which is a LOT 😉
Yes, and though God’s working is never easy, it’s always worth it.
What a beautiful illustration! I struggle so much with comparing myself to others – especially online! This is a great reminder for me. I’m visiting from Transformed Tuesdays!
Thanks for the comment, Brenda
I’m with you on the online comparing. There are so many creative people providing really great material.
Sometimes, I find myself getting caught up in comparisons and then begin feeling insecure about what I’m doing.
If I’m not careful, I lose my own focus.
Let’s pray together to keep our eyes on our work and the creative, great things God has for us!
Thanks for the visit–hope you’ll stop by again soon.
What a great illustration, Mitzi. I hate to say it but God is trying to transform me in the area of discipline but, unfortunately, I’m giving him a bit of a fight. 🙁 I need to get out of myself and into him. He’s coaxing me out of my cocoon.
Great post! I love that God’s transformation frees us!
Thanks for linking up with Woman to Woman’s Word Filled Wednesday! God bless.
thanks, Jenifer–thankful for His transforming power!
Thank you for the reminder to wait on Him and listen to His voice.
thanks, Laura!