Our former existence was one of striving for fleshly desires and a carnal nature. However, once we come to Christ, our soul is sanctified and made new. Our entire life is turned right side up, and we find more satisfaction and contentment in our thoughts, words, and activities than ever before (1 Timothy 6:6-10).
Jesus redeemed us from our wonton and destructive lifestyle, and His Spirit sanctifies our nature and character until we resemble Christ in us more and more (2 Corinthians 3:18). We no longer miss the earthly pleasures that we formerly sought after, and we realize that God’s perfect plans for us are truly more fulfilling.
As slaves of God, we are set free from the slavery to sin in order to reap the blessings of holiness and eternal life (Romans 6:22). We belong to Christ, who was raised from the dead, so that we will bear fruit for God's Kingdom (Romans 7:4). The fruit of His Spirit replaces our carnality (Galatians 5:15-25).
Jesus delivered us on Calvary’s cross from our fleshly nature, which used to serve sin; and He gives us a mind, which is now a slave to God's nature, principles, and Kingdom (Romans 7:25). Sin and demonic forces no longer have power over us, because of God's grace ruling in our heart (Romans 6:14; 1 John 4:4-6).
Daily, we live as a witness to others of the love and nurture of the eternal, triune Godhead living within us (Romans 8:4). We belong to Christ, who was raised from the dead, so that we will bear fruit for God's Kingdom (Romans 7:4). He is our all in all through every moment of every day (Ephesians 4:6).
Prayer:
Father God, thank You that we now reap the blessings of holiness and eternal life that You planned for us before we were ever born (Romans 6:22; Psalm 139). You teach us to pray through any rocky stretches of road by the direction of Your Spirit, and we petition You to meet our needs and the needs of all Your Saints (Ephesians 6:18). We can trust Your Spirit to slowly sanctify us and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).
Thank You that the result is that we walk in Your Spirit (Galatians 5:15-26). We bear holy fruit in our life, and we share this fruit with those You bring our way (Galatians 5:22-23). We cannot accumulate enough good works to earn Your love (Ephesians 2:8-9). While we were still sinners, You already gave us Your unconditional and unmerited love as a free gift (Romans 3:23, 5:6-8, 6:23). We thank You now and throughout eternity for Your saving grace in our life.
Thoughts for the Day:
Since the Son of God set us free, we are absolutely free to live a life of holiness (John 8:36; Romans 6:18). His divine power enables us to excel in our vocation, spiritual calling, and family relationships (Colossians 1:27). God's Spirit seals our redemption in Christ (Ephesians 1:13-14). He gives His gifts and fruit to all Believers to enjoy and to share with the Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:7-11; Galatians 5:22-23).
