The transformation brought about by the new birth is not only an instantaneous miracle but also a lifelong process of sanctification. For those so transformed, everything changes; the old things have passed away. Old values, ideas, plans, loves, desires, and beliefs vanish, replaced by the new things that accompany salvation. The verb tense used in this passage indicates a past act with continuing results in the present. God plants new desires, loves, inclinations, and truths in the redeemed, so that they live in the midst of the old creation with a new creation perspective (cf. Galatians 6:14). That perspective, as it is nourished and developed, helps believers gain victory in the battle against sin and conforms them into the image of Jesus Christ. Way back in the Old Testament book of Ezekiel we read, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them.” This has been made possible by the Work of Jesus … READ MORE

2 Corinthians 5:14 tells us, “For the love of Christ constrains us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead.” The phrase “the love of Christ” is best seen in this context as Christ’s love for us – a love most clearly seen in His sacrificial death. As those who have passed from death to life, we have a growing appreciation for what Christ has done for us. In this passage Christ’s incomprehensible, unbreakable, unconditional life overwhelmed Paul. Christ’s love controlled Paul because he had concluded in a deep and profound way the reality of his identification with Christ. It is that identification that becomes New (2 Cor. 5:17) when we become a believer. Just as Paul was overwhelmed with gratitude that the eternal, holy God sent His Son to die as a substitute to pay the penalty for his sins, we to should allow that marvelous truth to move in our lives to live in a way that honors and glorifies the Lord. We do not do this because we are destined for heaven (although that is a privilege of the believer) we serve the Lord and His body out of gratitude for … READ MORE

Spring is just around the corner, and with that corner comes new life, new hope, and new perspective. We have “survived” another winter, and now with the coming of spring there is a completely new perspective on the coming year. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if any man be in Christ he is a new creation, old things have passed away, behold all things are becoming new” When we establish a relationship with Christ in our life things begin to change naturally. Life is about change, and no matter how hard we try, change will enter into our lives. Life is about change, and the moment of conversion brings a new perspective into our lives and heart. What a blessing it is to know that our relationship with the Lord grows and changes as we live each day of our lives. And the beauty of our walk with the Lord is enjoyed by those around us, just like the flower beds that are around us. Today, May you blossom where the Lord has planted you.… READ MORE