“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” 2 Corinthians 5:17
A few weeks into the new year and those commitments we make to ourselves about a new diet and new ways can begin to wane. Habits we wholeheartedly intend to settle into and make a new way of life are challenged on all fronts. It takes dedication, stamina, prayer and even a little bit of stubbornness to commit to changes that can last…
…more than a few weeks or months.
But, in our faith, there is hope. The Bible tells us that if we are in Christ, we are a new creation. For those of us with pasts full of poor decisions, unwise choices, pain and hurt, those words are soothing to the soul.
It’s difficult to believe that God has a short memory, but He does. When we truly repent and ask for His forgiveness, He does it. End of story.
In His presence, there are no lingering jabs, no dredging up old hurts or reopening of old wounds. We can simply dwell in the beauty of being made new and whole.
If you’re like me, your New Year’s resolutions included things like getting back in shape, losing a few pounds, perhaps exercising more discipline and control in many areas of your life. Typically, I can hang on for a few months, and then I start to slip. I pray this year is different. But also, added to this years’ list, for me…
…was a recommitment to Him.
You see, I need to fully grasp the concept of the old being gone and the new being here. The enemy plays games with me all the time, nudging into my sense of well-being, trapping me in guilt over things long gone and forgotten by God. It’s one of my hot buttons and the enemy knows it full well. He throws out challenges and reminders just to see if I’ll slip.
This year, I commit to leaning more into Him and asking for Him to help resist the trappings of the enemy. And, I know that if I ask, I will receive His help. When I feel weak and vulnerable, it’s not because He’s stepped away…
…It’s me creating the distance.
So, this resolution is one that is worlds more important than the others on my list. While I’d love to shed a few more pounds and have more fun, my true commitment is to living this year closer to the One who has already given me a new life.
