“Counseling through the Word” Devotional: I am a New Creation
As believers in Christ, we undergo a complete transformation—a shift from the old to the new. This is not just a change in behavior or perspective; it is a fundamental change in our identity. In this devotional, we explore what it means to be a new creation in Christ and how this truth impacts our daily lives.
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”
Devotional Thought
In Christ, we are not merely improved versions of our old selves; we are entirely new creations. This profound truth lies at the heart of the Christian faith. The moment we place our trust in Christ, a radical transformation occurs—we are reborn. The old life, with its sinful desires and worldly values, passes away, and a new life begins. This new creation is marked by a spiritual union with Christ, where His righteousness is imputed to us, and our sins are imputed to Him. This exchange, often referred to as the “great exchange,” is the foundation of our new identity in Christ.
As new creations, our values, priorities, and desires are transformed. The things we once pursued no longer have the same hold on us because our hearts have been redirected towards the things of God. This doesn’t mean that we no longer struggle with sin, but it does mean that sin no longer defines us. Instead, we are defined by our relationship with Christ and the new life He has given us. Our old value systems, loves, and plans are replaced with new ones that align with God’s will.
This transformation is ongoing, as we continually grow in our sanctification, becoming more like Christ. We now live with an eternal perspective, recognizing that our ultimate goal is not found in the temporal things of this world but in the eternal glory that awaits us. As new creations, we are called to live out this reality daily, letting our lives reflect the profound change that has taken place within us.
Bringing it Home: Applying What We Learned
- New Identity: Embrace your identity as a new creation in Christ, letting go of past sins and failures.
- Transformation: Allow the ongoing work of sanctification to reshape your desires, priorities, and actions.
- Eternal Perspective: Live with the understanding that your ultimate goal is found in eternal things, not in the temporary pursuits of this world.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for making me a new creation in Christ. Help me to live out this new identity every day, letting go of the old and embracing the new. Transform my heart and mind to align with Your will, and give me the strength to pursue the things that matter to You. May my life reflect the profound change You have made in me, and may I glorify You in all that I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Questions for Reflection
- What old habits or mindsets do I need to let go of to fully embrace my new identity in Christ?
- How can I allow God’s ongoing work of sanctification to transform my daily actions and decisions?
- In what ways can I shift my focus from temporal pursuits to eternal goals?
Take the Next Step on Your Journey
Thank you for joining me today. If you found this lesson helpful, I encourage you to explore more resources and support on my website, https://jameslongjr.org/. You can also watch my video on my YouTube channel.
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Remember, true change is possible when you walk in God’s grace and for His glory. Until next time, may you find peace, hope, and joy in Christ alone. Blessings!