by Coach Debbie
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God…“
2 Corinthians 5:17-18a (NIV)
Now reread that 3 more times. Let it sink in. Emphasize different words. God's Word is LIVING and ACTIVE.
EXPLANATION:
To be “in Christ” means that we have made the step to believe in Jesus as our Lord and Savior who died on a cross for the forgiveness of our sins so that we may enter into relationship with Him, both on earth and in heaven.
At this moment of accepting Him into the Lord of our hearts and lives, everything changes. We become a NEW creation! Not an “improved” woman, but a brand new creation! We are no longer the same. God allows us to have more than any gimmick resolutions would.
The Holy Spirit comes to live within us as our counselor and guide. All we have to do is truly believe. The rest is His work. His mercies are new every morning and He will be conforming us into His image every day that we are allowed to live and breathe on this planet.
Your old self is gone. Your past is forgiven and forgotten. Negative labels are no longer attached to you. You are shiny and clothed in the King’s righteousness. White as snow. Changed from within so you may reflect His love to others. All because of Him.
APPLICATION:
If much change is happening spiritually within, ask yourself is it obvious to those around me?
Walking with the Lord is a daily process. We are rarely an overnight success story. We are a work in progress. The more we spend time with Him in prayer and worship, the more we become like Him. Being Christ-like leads to changes in attitude, behavior, speech, thoughts, actions. More grace, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control, mercy, obedience, humility, etc.
Yet none of this is done in our own strength. We pursue Him and rely on Him to change us from the inside out. We will never be “good enough” to earn salvation or His favor. It is freely given.
We don’t have to give ourselves a mental pep rally when we simply rely on the Lord to meet our needs. It’s about priorities. God first, everything else after.
So while the world is avoiding carbs, running 7 miles a day, and weighing in, we are telling you to simply savor your relationship with the Father.