Identity in Christ: I am Born Again
New life. It’s something everyone desires at some point—a fresh start, a second chance, a clean slate. In Christ, that desire is fulfilled in the most profound way possible. When we are born again, our old life is left behind, and we are given a new identity. Today’s verse reminds us that this new birth is not temporary or fleeting; it is eternal, and it is rooted in God’s living and abiding Word.
Scripture: 1 Peter 1:23
“Since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God.”
Devotional Thought: I am Born Again
The moment you accepted Christ, you experienced the miracle of being born again. This is not a physical rebirth, but a spiritual transformation, brought about by God’s Word and His Holy Spirit. It is an imperishable new beginning that brings eternal life.
Peter contrasts our new birth with human birth. Physical life comes from perishable seed, and everything in this world is temporary. But your new spiritual life comes from imperishable seed—the living and enduring Word of God. This new life is eternal, and it is not subject to decay or destruction. It cannot be taken away from you.
The Word of God, which brought about your new birth, is active and powerful (Hebrews 4:12). It is through this Word that the Holy Spirit reveals God’s grace to us and draws us to salvation in Christ. Because this Word is eternal, the life it imparts is everlasting. Your new life in Christ is secure because it is rooted in the unchanging, living Word of God.
As a born-again believer, you are no longer enslaved to the things that used to define you. Your old self has passed away, and your new self is being shaped by the Spirit through God’s Word. This transformation enables you to live a life marked by love, holiness, and truth.
Bringing it Home
Here are three ways you can live out the truth that you are born again:
- Embrace your new identity: You are not defined by your past. You are a new creation in Christ, born again by His Word. Let go of old patterns and walk in the newness of life.
- Dive into the Word: The same Word that gave you new life continues to shape and strengthen you. Make time each day to read and meditate on Scripture, allowing it to renew your mind and transform your heart.
- Love others deeply: Because you have been born again, you are empowered to love others with a sincere and selfless love. Let the love of Christ flow through you to those around you, especially your brothers and sisters in Christ.
The truth that we are born again is a powerful reminder that our lives are forever changed in Christ. The old is gone, and the new has come. Let’s walk in the assurance and joy of our new birth, rooted in God’s living and enduring Word.
Prayer
Father, thank You for the incredible gift of new life in Christ. I praise You that I have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable seed through Your living Word. Help me to walk in the fullness of this new life, leaving behind my old ways and embracing the identity You have given me. Strengthen me through Your Word each day and empower me to love others as You have loved me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Questions for Reflection
- How can you embrace your new identity in Christ this week?
- What steps can you take to dive deeper into God’s word daily?
- In what ways can you show sincere and selfless love to those around you?
The truth that we are born again is a powerful reminder that our lives are forever changed in Christ. The old is gone, and the new has come. Let’s walk in the assurance and joy of our new birth, rooted in God’s living and enduring Word.
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!