2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV) Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.

When we are born again, Christ creates a new person in us.  The behaviors of our old self give way to the Holy Spirit that lives inside of us.  God Himself directing our lives!  It’s the only way for us to have the type of love that is patient, kind, does not envy, has no self-interest and is not irritable or resentful (1 Corinthians 13:4).  A simple, perfect trust in the one and only true God is the only way to eliminate the old life.

What are some actions a Christ-follower can take to distinguish himself or herself from someone who isn’t?

Ephesians 4:25-27 (NLT)  25 So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body. 26 And don’t sin by letting anger control you. Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 for anger gives a foothold to the devil. 

Ephesians 4:30-32 (NLT)  30 And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption.  31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.

The Christian message (the Gospel) is not a way of saying, “try better, try harder, do your best to live a good life.” If anyone thinks that, that person has misunderstood the whole point of Christianity (it is by grace you have been saved). Being a Christ-follower is a personal experience with a living Lord, accepting Him as Lord and Savior and allowing His Spirit to live through you. The Christian life is not just about cleaning out the bad stuff. It’s not enough to merely “put off”; we must also be in the business of “putting on.”  It’s the only way to flourish.

Live a flourishing life in Christ!