Conformity—How it Rules Lives
The definition of conformity...
“behavior in accordance with socially accepted conventions or standards.”
Socially
“in a way that relates to society or its organization.”
Convention
“a way in which something is usually done, especially within a particular area or activity.”
In essence it means to present yourself in a manner set by specific conventions / standards trending in the moment to feel recognized and accepted by society.
It’s the rule of the movement and action by people. How they conduct themselves? What they wear? Their profession, and signs of accomplishment through material possessions. Moreover, is the emotional reaction of status that sets one person apart from another.
Throughout history, we’ve been ruled by them all. Influenced by personal presentation, and the fashion industry depicts it best. The evolution in style impacted by cultural shifts, technological advancements, and social movements. It consistently reflects societal values and individual expression.
From flowy garments and colors that signified wealth in ancient civilizations to layered dresses and ruffles, flapper dresses to miniskirts, psychedelic prints and bold patterns to disco, and today trends lean to practicality with sustainable ethical fashion.
It’s the visual imprint that leaves a lasting impression on who you feel you need to be in order to be accepted by society. However, when you closely examine these trends, how have they impacted quality of life.
Fashion designs displayed by beautiful models in marketing and social media present an unrealistic ideal where if you purchase this item you’ll be socially accepted. It’s led to eating disorders in teenagers. A condition based on ‘conformity’. A belief integrated throughout history, where if you have the figure, looks, perfect attire, everyone will love you. A false idealism that has plagued society for decades.
Moreover, is the conditioning of personal wealth through materialism. The intense desire to be like the Joneses, owning a 4,000 sq ft home, RV, Harley Davidson, diamonds, custom designed fashion, can plant an image of ‘want’. It can lead to obtaining it in ways that aren’t practical, through lines of credit, equity loans, so you can be accepted by higher society. An illusion that leads to heavy debt or bankruptcy.
Some take a progressive approach and steal to own precious items to fulfill their self-gratification, empowerment, and acceptance.
These behaviours / conditions are enhanced by influencers, marketers, the movie industry, where you believe the only path to happiness is to follow the newest trend.
Conformity has been our culture for centuries. It’s at every doorstep. No matter where you live or your circumstance, your heart longs to be accepted and recognized, as you don’t want to feel left out. You want to be seen, feel confident in wearing the newest trend, driving the hottest new car, and living in luxury. However, that isn’t God’s message for you.
Romans 12:2
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.”
Clearly, God wants you to thrive in the world He created. Enjoy the fruits He provides but what He doesn’t want is conformity. It’s when you conform to the world, you’re led astray. You become the wonderer, searching for purpose to belong in all the wrong places.
A place where status blinds your purpose. Fashion creates false illusion. Social media / gaming blocks personal interaction.
To define, conformity is to serve the world, like generations before you. However, you can choose to be its servant or live according to God’s will.
Increase spiritually through the renewing of the mind in the Word or decrease through conformity.
John 16:33
“These things I have spoken to you so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.”
In Jesus, you overcome the intense desires of conformity as you lean on His strength. He knows the enticement of the world, how you want to belong, be successful, and recognized. These temptations pull at your heart strings, where desire takes over. However, in Jesus you can be victorious, freed from the chains of this world. Free to walk in His footsteps knowing with confidence that conformity has no rule over you.
John 14:6
"I am the way, and the truth, and the life.”
In the blood of Jesus, your sins are washed away. In Him, is renewal, peace, salvation, and immense love.
It’s in His peace you rise above the noise, confusion, desperation, and temptation. There is no one like Him. No one who loves you more. I know He has been with me in every challenge, and in every case, He has rescued me, reminding me that I am a child of God, and not forget who I am in Him.
Isaiah 60:1
Arise, shine, for your light has come.
He desires for you to rise out of the shackles of conformity, to embrace His light so you can be free, and shine in His glory. However, God is a merciful God. He gifted you with free will to make the choice to conform to the world or be free and shine.
I pray you make the decision that speaks to your heart, a decision to set you on a path to freedom.
Prayer Journal
He must Increase, I must Decrease, John 3:30, Prayer Journal
To help you on your journey, I created this Prayer Journal based on John 3:30, ‘He must increase, I must Decrease’ as a digital download where you can print pages as you need them. This creative inspiration was born from using the journal in the morning and evening.
The revelation of hearing God and Jesus’s words through the Holy Spirit has been uplifting, humbling and encouraging. A witness to the Holy Trinity’s movement in my life.
The journal is designed where you examine your behaviors and make a commitment to decrease behaviors that don’t align with God’s purpose and increase areas where you can shine in His glory. For example, decrease online shopping and increase reading the Word.
This devotion time has inspired me to create additional Prayer Journals, available in my ETSY Shop, and a 31-Day Devotional, in the works.
The journal includes:
The journal is available in my ETSY Shop, Archway Designs by CFC Studios.
Grab your copy today
Hi, I’m Cathy.
A blogger, photographer, author, passionately driven to pointing people away from new age indoctrination to find redemption in Jesus Christ.
I’m a mixed blend, excited to share all I offer...
Blog-Twisted Roots
Do you find yourself asking questions about new age, whether the practices and beliefs are leading your soul to redemption?
As a reformed new ager, I was saturated in the belief I could co-create with the universe and manifest a life of abundance. But I was deceived. This blog is to point you to the truth of God’s words and how He perceives the new age indoctrination. It also highlights other areas to inspire and encourage Christians in their walk of faith.
Fine Art Photograph
I always dreamed of being a professional photographer when I grew up. It was a journey to reach this goal. When the opportunity presented itself, I knew it was time to fulfill my dream.
I owned a home-based studio for over a decade but have been shooting images for two decades. Now, semi-retired, I have a collection of my most cherished images of landscape or fine art available for wall décor.
