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“…and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.”  Ephesians 4:24 (ESV)

If you’re like me there are a lot of things in our closet we didn’t even wear in 2020.  In fact, comfy clothes pretty much describe my attire during the quarantine. So now that I’m back working in the office, I’ve noticed this weird trend – some of my clothes just don’t fit like they used to fit.  Maybe you’ve been there too when the desire to put on “old” stuff just simply no longer works.

Bet we’ve all ridden the wave of our old sin nature seeking to dominate us. Great reminder tucked away in Ephesians 4:24 to put off our old self compelling us into action.  Taking off the old and embracing the new sounds inviting. When we believe in Jesus we become a new creation – one totally washed in His cleansing blood.  Purely white and free from the ugliness of our sins.  Clothed in His righteousness. Our salvation was sacrificially paid for by the Lamb of God – nothing we have to do other than choose to belief.

Amazing how quickly we default back to our old selves.  Without even much thought or intention, we slip back into grabbing habits and actions which never served us well.  Jealousy, covetousness, envy, pride, impurities, etc.   Not exactly what God intended when He declared us “new.”

Colossians 3 invites us to “put” to death the worldliness in us and “put” on holiness, compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, patience, forgiveness, and love.  Now that sweet friends is exactly what new looks like – reflecting the image of our God in right living and holiness.  Purposefully choosing to exchange what we used to be like for what God designed us for.

Now I have to admit grabbing old is so easy and putting on new takes great intentionality.  We truly need to depend on the Holy Spirit to empower us.  We can’t do it in our own strength, but it is doable if we rely on God and cooperate with His transforming work in us.  And our secret weapon
is found in renewing our mind daily with the knowledge of our God. Immersing ourselves in scripture illuminates our thoughts and teaches us about the character of our God – the very One we are to reflect. Partnering up with a sister in the Lord who we can foster accountability with us gives us the perfect advantage over sin.

Bottom line – the best change we ever make is to accept Jesus as Savior and then allowing His Spirit to  cultivate the “new” us step by step.

“Father, while we struggle to embrace new, You are right there beside us guiding us each day and teaching us how to be more like You.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life