NEWNESS OF LIFE

"Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin" (Rom 6:4-6)

Devotion 10 of 11

THINGS THAT HAVE BECOME "NEW"

The "commandment" to love has now become new (John 13:34). It has a new dimension that can never be perceived while in the grip of a law-principle. The "covenant" in which we have been made accepted is a "new covenant" (Heb 12:24). It transcends the old, possessing "better promises" (Heb 8:6). It is a "better way" to God. Its presence has obviated the "old covenant" (Heb 8:13).

Our persons are recreated in Christ. Now we are a blend of heaven and earth, with the heavenly part given the preeminence. We are a "new creation" in Christ Jesus (2 Cor. 15:7). Our hearts have been made "new" (Ezek 18:31). They are now tender to God, and repelled by sin. They hunger and thirst for righteousness, and cause our affection to be set on things above, not on things on the earth. We are looking for a "new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness" (2 Pet. 3:13).

What a blessing to inhabit an environment where swords are beaten into plowshares and spears into pruning hooks! (Isa 2:4). Our inner persons have been transformed. We now have a "new man" that is in "the image of Him that created him" (Col 3:10).

Israel had as central city, but it has been replaced by another. Those in Christ now anticipate a "new Jerusalem" in which the prophets will not be slain, and over which Jesus will not weep (Rev. 3:12). We are promised a "new name" in the world to come (Rev. 2:17). It will be a name that perfectly reflects our capacities and ministry in Christ.

David, the "sweet Psalmist of Israel" sang differently than those before Him. He sang a "new song," and admonished others to do the same Psa. 33:3; 40:3; 144:9). We join him now in singing new songs to the Lord--songs that reflect new insights and longings. But the day is coming when we will sing another "new song" in the land where there is no night. In Christ we receive a "new spirit" -- a new principle of animation (Ezek 11:19). We are sensitive in new areas, and more alert to the will of the Lord.

Even the "spirit of our mind" is renewed in Christ Eph 4:23). We think differently, reasoning on a higher plane. The new covenant is called a "new way" of gaining access to God (Heb 10:20). It is "new" in that it is effectual. Unlike the old covenant, it is not a process that ends in futility. That is why it is called a "new and LIVING way" (Heb. 10:20). All who gain access to this "way" through faith will experience life toward God. They become receptive to and conscious of their God and Savior.

PRAYER POINT: Father, through Jesus Christ, I thank and praise You for a salvation that makes everything fresh and new.

-- TOMORROW: CONCLUSION To Series --