In "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" Mary Baker Eddy, referring to the conversion of Saul of Tarsus, says (p. 326), "Thought assumed a nobler outlook, and his life became more spiritual." This same apostle, who in humility adopted the new name of Paul, wrote (Rom.12:2), "Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."
To be conformed to this world is to be in agreement with the notion that man is a mortal, that he lives in a material body and is subject to the so-called pains and pleasures of material sense. But to be transformed is to undergo a change of nature. In Christian Science the word indicates that we are to forsake the idiosyncrasies and inhibitions of what is known as the human mind and let our nature or thinking pattern the divine. Transformation does not imply some super-natural feat; neither does it necessitate the sweeping away or annihilation of that which seems essential to meet a human need. It is brought about by the renewing of our mind, by the exchanging of material beliefs for spiritual understanding. It is spiritualization of thought which acknowledges as true only that which witnesses to the things of God.
To be transformed means to go forward confidently each day, ridding ourselves of error through increased understanding and demonstration of the allness and oneness of God, Spirit, Mind. If we meet with ingratitude for the good we learn to express, we must not be dismayed, but rather trust the truth of the Psalmist's words (Ps. 37: 23), "The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord."
