New Me

When we put our trust in Jesus, transformation happens. However, it’s not immediate. It is a lifelong process of something the Bible calls “sanctification.” Throughout our lives, we are being made holy (which means set aside for a special purpose) by the power of Jesus and the Holy Spirit working in us to show us the areas where we need to change. We will never be perfect on this side of heaven. 

The best gift we receive in following Jesus is the gift of the Holy Spirit--who works within our hearts and minds to make us new. Often our minds don’t just flip a switch and immediately think holy thoughts because we live in the world and we have a sinful nature within us. But when we receive the Holy Spirit, we have a new power within us to throw aside that old way of a sinful life and begin to think and act differently. He changes the way our minds work which helps us to have different attitudes and behaviors. 

While we do need to put forth effort and make the choice to live like Jesus instead of living selfishly, the Holy Spirit helps us do this. We can begin to tell the truth instead of telling lies. We can replace our anger with forgiveness. We can stop having an attitude of “what can I get out of this?” and replace it with an attitude of “How can I serve or give to others?” We can stop speaking words that tear people down and instead speak words that build others up and give life. Our bitterness, gossip, and selfishness can be replaced with tender hearts, kindness, and generosity. 

What does the Holy Spirit need to change in you? Take a moment and ask Him. Pray this prayer: “Holy Spirit, show me the areas of my past and current life that still need to be transformed by your power. Open my eyes to see it and renew my mind to think differently. Give me the courage to act differently and love others well. Amen.”

You don’t have to do this alone. You get to live a new life, with the Holy Spirit inside of you and with a new family by your side!