Put off the Old Self and Put on the New Self
“22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26 “In your anger do not sin”[a]: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 28 Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.
29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”
Our old self was one that lived according to the desires of the flesh, the pride of life, and the lust of the eyes, swayed by the temptations of the world and corrupted by sinful desires. However, today’s passage speaks clearly: "Put off the old self and put on the new self."
To put on the new self is more than just trying to become a better person. It is accepting the fact that God has created us anew in righteousness and holiness of the truth, and living in that newness. This transformation is not achieved by our efforts alone. The new self is the new creation made by God in holiness, and we must embrace this newness through His grace.
This grace of sanctification is what we call 'Sanctifying Grace.' Through the grace of salvation, or 'Saving Grace,' we became children of God, and now through His grace, we experience the sanctifying grace that leads us toward holiness. Through this grace, our inner being is truly renewed, allowing us to live according to the image of God.
In our lives as new people, tangible changes begin to appear. These changes manifest in a life that loves God and loves others. Our love for God shapes us more into His image, and that love transforms us into people who love our neighbors. As a result, we no longer live in anger or sin but serve others and live lives that bring grace to them.
These changes do not make our lives miserable or boring. On the contrary, they bring us freedom, boldness, and enrich our lives. Let us respond in faith to God's invitation to put off the old self and put on the new self. When we do so, our lives will reflect God's grace, and that grace will be revealed to the world through us.
Prayer: We realize that our old habits and ways still have a hold on us. As we come before You in praise, prayer, and meditation on Your Word, we acknowledge our weaknesses. We long for Your sanctifying grace to renew our inner being. Help us to grow in the likeness of Your image, and may our lives be transformed to love You and love our neighbors. Lord, uphold our frail souls by Your grace and clothe us in the new self. Amen.
(Note: This summary was created based on an AI draft.)
Devotional content is available on the Our Daily Bread website.