“You were taught, with
regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being
corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your
minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness
and holiness” (Ephesians 4:22-24 NIV).
The New Year is here and during this time, I take some time to reflect on my Christian walk during the past year. I am hoping that you also will
look back on the old year and think of ways your walk with Christ brought hope
to others. Can you say that for the most part you put off your old self or were
your desires more important than what God wanted for you?
It is tough to look back,
but important so that you can see your mistakes and learn from them. It is also
good to think on the ways that you served God. Did you show His love to others? Did you give to others without expecting anything in return?
Now, let’s talk about our new attitudes. We
are “to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and
holiness” Eph. 4:24 NIV). Now I think that would be an excellent resolution for
the New Year. I think everyone has
something that they would like to fix on their body for the New Year. It
usually revolves around a new body that looks like a fitness instructor. You
know, all muscle for the guys, and a perfect hour glass firm body for the gals.
Well, I think that is a great goal, but without work it won’t happen. Our new
self and attitude takes work too. It means being just as dedicated to prayer
and reading the Bible, as you are to exercising and eating healthy. Your
spiritual self needs to be made new, along with your body.
So for the New Year, think about really
putting on the new self and being like God in true righteousness. Be humble,
pray, read the Bible, give to others, have a positive attitude, and be
forgiving.
Dear Lord,
I know you created me with
a specific purpose in mind. Help me to fulfill that purpose by putting off my
old self and putting on my new self. Help me to strive to serve others with
humility and compassion.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen
