“…and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” Eph 4:24 (NIV)
You are in the process of becoming who you are in Christ.
In Christ, you are a saint, blessed, chosen, adopted, redeemed, forgiven, included, sealed, and secure. Your new self is a spiritual reality in Christ that becomes evident practically as you live out your faith.
“Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed–not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence–continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.” Phil 2:12-13 (NIV)
God expects you to work out what He has worked in. You are complete in Christ. Your new self in Christ has been given everything you need to embrace the life of Christ in your daily lifestyle. Take off the old and express the new.
“Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.” Col 3:9-10 (NIV)
What adjustments need to be made in your schedule, your energy allocation, and your financial stewardship to become who you are in Christ? What is keeping you from expressing the life of Christ practically through your daily interactions? Are your current habits helping you to develop and demonstrate your new self?
Pursuing God,
Stephen Trammell
Pastor of Leadership and Pastoral Care