“If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV

Every day, people “read” you. The question is, what kind of message are they getting? Here is what they’re supposed to get: “We…are being transformed into his image” (2 Corinthians 3:18 NIV). “We have renounced secret and shameful ways” (2 Corinthians 4:2 NIV). “If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: the old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV). In other words, your letter should make it clear that you’re no longer the person you once were because (1) Christ has changed you spiritually. Once you didn’t enjoy God’s Word or obey His commands. Now you hear, receive, love, and obey His Word and revel in it (see Psalm 119:97-106 AMPC). (2) Christ has changed you morally. In 1 Corinthians 6, Paul lists many of the sins that once characterized our lives. He mentions those who are immoral, thieves, greedy, drunkards, slanderers, swindlers, etc. Then comes this wonderful verse: “And that is what some of you were. But you were washed… sanctified [set apart for God’s use]…justified [just-if-I’d never sinned]” (v. 11 NIV). In other words, God has transformed your character qualities. (3) Christ has changed you mentally. “Be…transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). Now you look at life, yourself, others, your challenges, your options, and opportunities in the light of God’s thoughts instead of your own. You see possibilities where before you saw only problems. Your mind, which was once frazzled by worry, is now filled with confidence and peace. In essence, your letter should transmit this message to the people you meet: “Christ has changed my life for the better, and if you let Him, He will change yours too!”

The Word for You Today is authored by Bob and Debby Gass and published under licence from Celebration Enterprises, Inc. Copyright © 2024