A New Life by Faith
Galatians 2:20 (NASB)
"I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me."
Context Behind the Verse
To “start over” in the Christian sense is a far more radical concept than merely turning over a new leaf. It is a spiritual death and resurrection. The apostle Paul speaks of a profound exchange: the old self, with its guilt and history of failure, was nailed to the cross with Jesus. It is gone. In its place is a new life that is not of our own making; it is the very life of Christ living through us. Moving forward, therefore, is not about summoning up more willpower to be a better person. It is about a daily, moment-by-moment dependence on His indwelling presence. We live this physical life by placing our full confidence in the Son of God, who proved His infinite love by sacrificing Himself for us. This is the engine of our new beginning: His life, His power, and His love, received by faith.
Prayer for the Day
Lord Jesus, I thank You that my old self was crucified with You and that I am a new creation. I confess that I often try to live this new life in my own strength. Help me to surrender daily, trusting in Your life within me to guide my thoughts, words, and actions. Teach me what it means to live by faith in You alone. Amen.
Inspirational Quote
“Faith connects you so intimately with Christ that He and you become, as it were, one person. As such, you may boldly say, ‘I am now one with Christ.’ Therefore, Christ’s righteousness is completely mine, and my sin is completely His.” Martin Luther