My mother sewed clothes for my sister during childhood. She pinned cut fabric to McCall’s patterns. Mom used a Singer sewing machine to stitch the separate pieces into a whole garment. Paper, cloth, thread, scissors, pins, and needles magically combined to make beautiful clothing. 

Patterns provide simple steps to successful outcomes. A graduated process leads to desired results. An old adage advises, “Plan your life, and live your plan.” Pick a pattern and follow the instructions.

Jesus Christ sets the pattern for Christian disciples. Romans 12:2 declares:

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. (NIV)

Don’t let the world around you squeeze you into its own mold. (JB Phillips)

Christians set their minds on things above, not earthly things. In order to do so, I recommend memorizing Philippians 4:8 and meditating on its meaning:

Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.  

May the Holy Spirit enable us to obtain the mind and attitude of Christ.