Becoming a New Creation in 2011

Each year many of us make resolutions to change something in our life; we add something new or  remove something that isn't working.  Many abandon their resolutions when the enthusiasm ends and the real work begins, typically only a month or two later.  How do we make major changes and how do the changes become habit?  How many changes have you tried to make in your life only to fail? I can think of many.

Becoming a new creation is scriptural for those who know and rely on Christ.  God intends for us to become new in the essence of our being; to hope in God, love God and one another, pray unceasingly, encourage each other, think in spiritual terms, battle in spiritual ways, etc. 2 Corinthians 5:17 gives us information on how spiritual rebirth takes place, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold new things have come.”    When we believe in the person and work of Christ, we open the door to our spirits so that by the Holy Spirit we can live in Christ and He can live in us.  His in-dwelling Spirit prompts us to desire to imitate Christ in character and life practices.  The concept of taking off unattractive character traits and put on new traits is addressed many times in the New Testament.   One of the greatest resources we have for "taking off" the old nature and putting on the new is the Bible.  Reading and praying through scripture can change our hearts and minds as the concepts of God become clearer.  A longing will develop to become Christ-like in our thoughts and actions (in other words - a new creation).  Ephesians 4: 22-24 says to be renewed in the spirit of your mind and put on the new self which is in the likeness of God.  Ask God to make you into a new creation.  He will answer that prayer.  God's work in you is spirit-work, His work through you is nothing short of miraculous.   

If you have time this week, read through Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians which are letters written to the church in each city.  Many sections of these letters describe the old life without Christ and the new life in Christ.  Take some time to pray through some of the concepts that speak to you and jot them in your prayer journal for further prayer and meditation. 

Lord, help us desire to be like you. We want to be new in our minds and hearts as we walk with you.  We praise and worship you. 

Blessings on your week,
Carol