Some beginnings take planning. Some happen whether we want them or not - all of a sudden - uncontrollable. Some beginnings are barely noticeable - starting small and growing until you suddenly realized something has changed. Some beginnings are hoped for over long periods of time - never seeming to get closer. Some are choices. Some...responses.
Ephesians 4:22-24
22 You were taught,
with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which
is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
Paul reminds the faithful in Ephesus that when they came to know Christ, they came to an ending...and a beginning. That they were to put off their old selves - the selfish, sinful desires. To change their attitudes and behaviors...to put on a new self. A Christ-like self. To begin to live a life in response to His grace, His death and resurrection. To be a light...to bring Him glory.
How hard is it to begin this new self? Are we immediately sin free? Nope. Like changing from dirty clothes to clean - we must put off the old to put on the new. It is a conscious, active effort to turn from sin, to stop listening to the whispers of the evil one.
We must make a habit of reading the Word, conversing with our Father, walking in the footsteps of our Savior, listening to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Each day is another chance to choose the new self - to honor our heavenly Father.
Whisper a prayer.....and let's begin.
Paul reminds the faithful in Ephesus that when they came to know Christ, they came to an ending...and a beginning. That they were to put off their old selves - the selfish, sinful desires. To change their attitudes and behaviors...to put on a new self. A Christ-like self. To begin to live a life in response to His grace, His death and resurrection. To be a light...to bring Him glory.
How hard is it to begin this new self? Are we immediately sin free? Nope. Like changing from dirty clothes to clean - we must put off the old to put on the new. It is a conscious, active effort to turn from sin, to stop listening to the whispers of the evil one.
We must make a habit of reading the Word, conversing with our Father, walking in the footsteps of our Savior, listening to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Each day is another chance to choose the new self - to honor our heavenly Father.
Whisper a prayer.....and let's begin.
that which you are going through is rough. it's a drain on the spirit, self-esteem, and maybe even the heart? This is why you must lean on Christ every step of the way, and know that the decisions you made are the right ones, and that you do have his blessing.
ReplyDelete