I've been missing in action, because I've been busy. Today I was forced to stay home. There is a storm coming our way, causing a panic in our city. So here I am. I finally have time to share. Here it goes:
Ephesians 4:22-24 “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; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.”
As a Christian, you still inhabit your old body with its habits, temptations, cultural influences, and a relational network that can very easily challenge your life in Christ. Your old body can thwart God’s work in you causing you to not experience the fruit of the Spirit, to miss God’s abundance, to prevent you from experiencing a daily relationship with Him, and to neglect His purpose for you. You can experience a greater portion of these by allowing God’s righteousness and holiness to reign in you. Putting off the old self is making the choice for God’s best. You choose Christ when you passionately seek to know Him through every avenue at your disposal. Your hunger and thirst for His righteousness consumes your life in this world. Jeremiah 15:16 says, “When Your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart's delight.” Pray for God to give you a revulsion for your old life and a heart of praise for His grace and love. Gaining a deeper intimacy with Christ will free the Holy Spirit to not only make sin repulsive, but also allow you to experience a greater measure of God’s grace and love. It is out of your intimacy with Christ that you will be empowered to put off the old selfish self and to put on your new self in Christ – “created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.”
Galatians 5:25 “If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit.”
