Have you ever wondered why you believe the things you do or act the way you do? Much of it comes from the society and culture we grow up in. It’s like we’re plants; the soil we’re planted in is our culture and society. Just as the quality of the soil affects how a plant grows, so do our cultural and societal frameworks influence our beliefs and actions. But are these frameworks in harmony with God’s values? Let’s explore this together.
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”_ (Romans 12:2, ESV)
Our Life’s “Soil”
Our paradigms—basically our life’s “soil”—are shaped by our culture and society’s norms, traditions, and values. From how we interact with family members to our views on money, many of our core beliefs were sewn into us before we even had a say in the matter.
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”_ (Proverbs 22:6, ESV)
Time for a Soil Test
Like how gardeners test their soil to see if it’s good for a plant, we need to test our cultural and societal paradigms to see if they’re good for our spiritual growth. How do we do that? By holding them up against the light of Scripture.
1. Family Values: What does your culture say about family roles and responsibilities? Compare that with what the Bible says about love, respect, and how families should treat each other.
2. Material Wealth: Society often measures success by how much we accumulate. What does the Bible say about the love of money and material wealth?
3. Interpersonal Relationships: Are how you interact with others—friends, neighbors, even strangers—aligned with Biblical teachings about love, kindness, and empathy?
“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.”_ (2 Timothy 3:16, ESV)
Making the Shift
If you find that some of your beliefs or attitudes are at odds with God’s values, it might be time for a paradigm shift. This isn’t about rejecting your culture or society but fine-tuning your perspectives to align with Biblical truth.
“Put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and be renewed in the spirit of your minds.”_ (Ephesians 4:22-23, ESV)
Where to Start?
1. Prayer: Start with a simple, honest prayer, asking God for wisdom and guidance.
2. Study: Dive into the Bible to better understand God’s values.
3. Community: Talk with trusted friends or mentors who can offer Biblical insights.
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”_ (James 1:5, ESV)
Making a paradigm shift is like repotting a plant into more fertile soil; it’s for our own growth and flourishing. If you’re uneasy about certain cultural norms or societal expectations, trust in the Lord to guide you through this transformative journey.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”_ (Proverbs 3:5-6, ESV)
So go ahead, take that step, and make the shift. God is there to guide you every step of the way. Amen.
