The old life is gone, in more ways than one. We hear about “the new normal,” that is clearly still evolving. What used to be up is often down, and visa-versa these days. The level of anxiety all around is tremendous as we attempt to find our way. The old is gone, but I need help finding the new.
As I was reading 2 Corinthians 5 recently the Holy Spirit began nudging me in new ways around familiar verses. Emphasis mine.
“16 So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now! 17 This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!”
What does that mean to have a new life in Christ?
I am a new creation, and I have new life, but do I really believe it? Assuming the old life is gone, have I allowed myself to change “enough”? I guess I am asking, is the new me becoming more like Jesus, to the level that people notice I am completely Andrea, but also noticeably like Jesus? Am I well on my way to becoming who God intended me to be from before the beginning of time?
Upon reflection, I can honestly say I am far from where I started. In many ways the old life is truly gone. And on further reflection, I am still on the journey. What is needed to keep progressing?
Please fill in with your own thoughts here, but this is a start on my list:
Cooperation with the Holy Spirit
others to come along side, of any age and maturity, new creation or not
The grace, forgiveness and mercy of God
courage and faithfulness
hope and love
worship and truth
rest and play
determination
perseverance
“14 Either way, Christ’s love controls us. Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that we have all died to our old life. 15 He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.”
The time has come to step more fully into “my new life,” in a new way. Boldness and purpose seem to be two more things I need more of. I am still shaking off the past- – – Abba, I want to live, stand, and walk in the truth that I am undeniably a completely new creation in You.
The old life is gone. Keep coming with me into the new.
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