“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!”
2 Corinthians 5:17
Born-again Christians may not look distinctive on the outside, but as new creations, they’re changed inwardly. It may mean they keep their emotions under control, give others the benefit of the doubt, exude peacefulness, or forgive readily. They may be quick with a warm smile and slow to judge. Most importantly, the transformation Jesus works in a Christian’s heart will mean, “I am not on the throne of my life; Jesus is.”
How does this inner change happen? Through the power of the Holy Spirit. When we surrender our will and our lives to Him, the Holy Spirit comes to live in us (John 14:16-17). As we daily “die to ourselves,” God transforms us to be more like Christ. We no longer wish to “conform to the pattern of this world,” but are “transformed by the renewing of our minds” (Romans 12:2).
What renews our minds? Reading the Bible, praying persistently, attending church, spending time with other believers, listening to online sermons, and so on. God is at work, conforming us to the likeness of Jesus (Romans 8:29).
How does this inner change happen? Through the power of the Holy Spirit. When we surrender our will and our lives to Him, the Holy Spirit comes to live in us (John 14:16-17). As we daily “die to ourselves,” God transforms us to be more like Christ. We no longer wish to “conform to the pattern of this world,” but are “transformed by the renewing of our minds” (Romans 12:2).
What renews our minds? Reading the Bible, praying persistently, attending church, spending time with other believers, listening to online sermons, and so on. God is at work, conforming us to the likeness of Jesus (Romans 8:29).
Scripture Focus
Romans 12:1-2
Insight
Ask God to show you what changes you need. Lean not on your own understanding (Proverbs 3:5), but submit to His will for you today.
Bible In A Year
- Genesis 49-50
- Psalm 25
- Mark 5
