When the topic of transformation in our life comes up, we typically think in terms of something much less extreme than what God has in mind. In our humanity we resist genuine change, simply as a matter of course. We cling to doing things our own way because the crux of the matter is our self-will. So when sin crops up, we react by trying to patch it up in one way or another, rather than taking the time and effort to get to the root of the problem.
We behave this way because it’s painful to root sin out. Yes, we want to change; at least we give lip-service to it. But when it comes right down to it, we usually are more comfy staying right where we are—superficial change, yes; genuine transformation, no.
Scripture makes it very clear that God is interested in something a whole lot deeper. He wants to live His life in and through us, to bring us to a place of spiritual health and maturity where He can use our life to radically impact the world. And it’s impossible for Him to do this without first transforming our character through the renewing of our mind.
What character have to do with it? Well, the definition of character largely answers that question. Character in the Greek means proof of genuineness, trustworthiness. It’s not surprising, then, to find it translated in at least one place as “proven character.” (Romans 5:3-4)