“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)
Nowadays, the concept of a new identity is emphasized in superhero movies like Ironman or Batman. Also, there is the idea that we can
be more than ourselves and become a new improved “self.” We live in a world that is redefining “identity,” and the world celebrates “self-identity.”
In the Bible, “the flesh” is equivalent to “self.” When we focus on what “we” want, what “we” need and who “we” want to be, we surrender
to the wants and desires of the flesh. This leads to sin—“For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh” (Galatians 5:17a).
When we accept Jesus into our hearts, our new identity in Christ begins through the indwelling Holy Spirit. The flesh has been put to
death and we are instructed to live by the Spirit of Christ. The characteristics of Christ are mentioned as the fruit of the Spirit—“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23a). We are encouraged to grow spiritually in these areas.
So, don’t go back to the old way. In the Old Testament, Moses was instructed by God to tell Pharoah to set His people free. Why? God
was setting His people free from their slavery in Egypt and was going to show them a new land and a new way of life. This is God’s way and will for His children! Embrace your new life in Christ and study His Word because He has much to tell you about Himself.
“You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you” (Romans 8:9a, NIV).
– Peter Constant
Council Fire is a collaboration with Intertribal Life Ministries and Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada.
The Council Fire Daily Devotional Book Set is available on the Intertribal Life Ministries website.
Learn more about Council Fire at councilfire365.org