Walking in Your New Identity

Walking in Your New Identity

Paul is telling the believers in Ephesus to not live like they used to live. They must have somehow stopped being sensitive to the Holy Spirit because in Ephesians 4:18-19 Paul says, “They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed.” They let their guard down and gave the devil a foothold. Have you ever stepped back and asked, “Where did that come from?” This was one of those times for the people of Ephesus.

If we do not intentionally “put off the old self and take up the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:22-24), then the devil had full reign to entice you to step up and support your old ways that prevailed before you settled the Lordship of Jesus Christ in your life. That would be like coming in from a long hot day of working in the yard, taking a nice shower, smelling like a million bucks, only to put your old clothes back on. Before you know it, the stench begins to permeate your skin again. Doesn’t sound too good does it?

We are to do as James says in James 1:21-22, “… Get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” When you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal savior, you planted the Word of God in your heart. You live by a new set of rules. God wants to come spilling out of you wherever you are and whatever you do. Keep feeding your soul by going to the Word of God daily. This is God’s will for your life. Live to please the Lord and don’t let anything get in your way.

On Sunday, April 13, we will have a Baptism in our morning services. Take another obedient step and follow Jesus to your believer’s baptism if you know Jesus and have not been baptized. Allow the Spirit of God to continue to make you new each and every day. This next obedient step is just what you need to do to “put off the old self and put on the new self” being refreshed through His Word.

Take time today to fill your mind with the Words of God. Let Him fill you with perfect peace.

This Sunday we will be voting on leaders for this new church year starting in May. Be praying for wisdom and direction. I am looking forward to a great day in the Lord this Sunday.

Joy in Jesus!

Pastor Mike