Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.
2 Corinthians 5:17
The believer is a new creation in Christ.
What does that mean, really?
Jesus gives us a new heart, and Christ lives in us, motivating us to change for His sake.
Our code of conduct and attitudes all become new (not perfect but aiming for more and more perfection), the company a believer keeps is new.
There is an inner reformation that takes place.
Old characteristics, habits, and sins are put off and a new creation in Christ bursts forth.
This change or transformation can happen gradually with some backsliding, or it can be a radically quick process for some individuals.
One thing is sure, the new person is to give glory to Jesus, the one who brings renewal.
When we have a new heart, a new spirit in us, we aim to live for and please God with His grace (power given by the Holy Spirit) helping us.
Everything we do, we do for Jesus, the one who gave us a new life!
God has reconciled the new person to himself by Jesus Christ.
There is a desire to immerse oneself in God’s inspired Word, and any hostility towards God has been removed.
Old things are gone.
Doubt and despising God are gone.
Love for Jesus Christ fills the heart now, to overflowing.
We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do His works.
Old habits, sins, and characteristics become changed.
New habits, such as kindness, gentleness, love, patience, and self-control, become the pattern.
The new person shines forth with a radiance that can only be explained as being a reflection in our hearts and in our faces of love, divine.
Christ in our hearts and in our minds, and in our actions, for good.
The Bible Verse above was on a banner above my desk in my office for over 5 years where I Counselled individuals.
It is a theme God has used in my life, and all believers’ lives.
It is a radical Bible Verse to hold on to when one hopes to change for good.
Many people commented on that Bible Verse, and it brought hope to many that change is possible with the help of Jesus Christ, living in us.
Isn’t it a beautiful thing when God redeems our hearts and lives for good?
Let each of us thank Him today.
If you have not yet asked Jesus to take over in your heart and life, please do so today?
You will become a new and better person as you seek Jesus with all your heart.
Don’t give up.
Ask Jesus to take up residence in your heart today?
Say sorry for the old and ask Jesus to bring the new?
He will certainly do it if you but ask.
Then join me in gratitude to Jesus and help others to learn of His redeeming love.
The old is gone, the new has come.
Praise God!