Embracing the New Life

In our journey of faith, the concept of transformation is central. The Bible frequently speaks about the transition from old to new, from darkness to light, and from a heart of stone to a heart of flesh. This transformation is not merely a superficial change but a profound renewal that starts from within and radiates outward. One of the most compelling scriptures that encapsulate this idea is found in Ezekiel 11:19, which states, “And I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh.”

The Promise of a New Heart

The promise of a new heart is a recurring theme in the Bible. It signifies a complete overhaul of our inner being, a divine surgery that replaces our hardened, unresponsive heart with one that is tender and receptive to God’s will. This new heart is not just about feeling differently; it’s about perceiving and living differently. It’s about aligning our thoughts, actions, and desires with God’s purpose for our lives.

When God says He will give us an undivided heart, He is promising to unify our fragmented selves. Our old heart, divided by conflicting desires and loyalties, is replaced with a heart singularly devoted to Him. This new spirit within us is the Holy Spirit, who guides, convicts, and empowers us to live in a way that honors God.

Living as Children of Light

The Apostle Paul echoes this transformative message in his letters. He urges believers to live as children of God, reflecting the light of Christ in a world often shrouded in darkness. “You were once in darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light” (Ephesians 5:8). This call to live differently is not just a suggestion; it’s a command rooted in our new identity in Christ.

Paul’s exhortation is clear: if you are a child of God, live like one. This means shedding the old ways of living that are incompatible with our new nature. It means rejecting behaviors, attitudes, and mindsets that belong to our former life and embracing those that reflect our new life in Christ. This transformation is not about adhering to a set of rules but about embodying the character of Christ in every aspect of our lives. Though some changes may happen instantly, most change will occur over our lifetime. Each day, we will be conformed a little more into the image of Christ.

The Inside-Out Transformation

The change that God brings about in us is from the inside out. It’s not about putting on a facade of righteousness while our hearts remain unchanged. True transformation begins in the heart and mind. As Paul writes in Romans 12:2, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” This renewal is a continuous process, a daily surrender to God’s shaping and molding. The renewing of our mind happens as we read and study the Word of God, allowing it to fill us.

When our minds are renewed, our perceptions change. We begin to see the world through God’s eyes. Our values shift from self-centered to Christ-centered. Our actions start to reflect the love, grace, and truth of Jesus. This inside-out transformation is a bold statement of God’s power to change lives. It’s a testament to His grace that takes us from who we once were to who we are meant to be.

Steps to Take to Embrace the New

Daily Surrender: Begin each day with a prayer of surrender, asking God to renew your heart and mind. Acknowledge your dependence on Him for strength and guidance.
Engage with Scripture: Regularly read and meditate on God’s Word, whether it’s one verse or a couple chapters at a time. Let it shape your thoughts and actions. Scriptures like Ezekiel 11:19 and Romans 12:2 are powerful reminders of God’s transformative work.
Community Support: Surround yourself with a community of believers who encourage and challenge you to live out your faith. Accountability and support are crucial in maintaining a transformed life.
Reflect and Repent: Regularly examine your heart and actions. Be quick to repent when you fall short and seek God’s forgiveness and strength to do better.
Serve Others: Look for opportunities to serve and love others. Acts of service not only reflect Christ’s love but also reinforce the transformation within you.

Call to Action

The journey from old to new, from darkness to light, is a profound and ongoing process. It’s a journey that requires daily commitment and reliance on God’s grace. Let’s embrace our new identity in Christ, as we are called to live in a way that reflects His love and light to the world. The promise of a new heart and a renewed mind is not just a distant hope; it’s a present reality for those who are in Christ.

Let’s be children of light, embodying the transformation that God has begun in us. Let us be bold in our faith, confident in our new identity, and unwavering in our commitment to live out the gospel. In doing so, we not only honor God but also become beacons of His transformative power to a world in desperate need of His love and grace.

Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes invites you to join us in this Sunday and see how the love of Jesus changes lives.