Principal's Ponderings

Made To Be You

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.” - Romans 12:2 (NIV)

There is a quiet pressure that surrounds us every day, a pull to fit in, to follow the crowd, to blend into the pattern of the world. It is subtle, but powerful. It shows up in what we value, how we spend our time, how we talk, and even in what we celebrate or fear. The world shouts: “Do what feels good. Chase success. Follow your truth.” But the Apostle Paul, through the Holy Spirit, calls us to something much deeper, truer, and more life-giving.

“Do not conform…” In other words, do not let the world squeeze you into its mould.

That is not always easy, especially for our children and teens. They are growing up in a culture where image is everything, where screens scream for their attention, and where standing out often feels risky. But as parents, teachers, and followers of Christ, we are called to model and teach a better way, a way of transformation.

Paul does not just say, “Don’t conform.” He invites us into renewal. A changed life begins with a changed mind, a mind shaped not by trends or popular opinion, but by truth. God’s Word becomes our anchor, His Spirit our guide, and His Son our example.

So what does that look like in real life?

It might mean:

• Choosing to speak kindly when gossip would be easier.

• Holding onto integrity when cutting corners would benefit us.

• Encouraging our children to be honest, even when it costs them socially.

• Turning down a toxic media influence and turning up worship or scripture in our home.

• Slowing down to pray and reflect, when the world says to hustle and strive.

As a school, we long to partner with families in forming hearts and minds that are shaped by Christ, not culture. We want our students to be more than just well-behaved, they were made to be transformed by grace, filled with purpose, and bold in their faith.

It is okay if we look a little different. In fact, it is more than okay, it is beautiful. Light was never meant to blend into darkness. Salt was never meant to lose its flavour. (A beautiful picture book that talks this through is, 'The World Needs Who You Were Made To Be.')

'We've done our very best, and now it's time to fly. 

See how beautiful it can be when our differences share the same sky?' 

- The World Needs Who You Were Made To Be.

Romans 12:2 ends with a promise: “Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is, His good, pleasing and perfect will.” When we live with renewed minds, we do not just survive, we discern. We discover what really matters. And we lead our children into a life that is full, joyful, and deeply anchored in Jesus.

Let's keep encouraging one another to walk the narrow road, not the popular one. Let’s raise up a generation not conformed to this world, but transformed by the love and truth of Christ.

Shalom, shalom

Chad Smit