It is amazing what God’s love can accomplish in the human soul—the mind, will, and emotions. We often begin life selfish and, like strong-willed children, we demand our own way. But over time, the love of Jesus begins to work in the hidden places of our hearts, and we begin to desire different things and see life through the eyes of God’s mercy.
We exchange our selfish attitudes for the attitude of Christ’s love, which renews our minds. We exchange our stubborn wills, allowing love to take dominion as we yield to the obedience of Christ. Lastly, we live by faith in the love of Christ and all He can do in and through us. When we do, we are governed and filled by the supernatural shalom—the peace and well-being of heaven.
As we continue our journey to Jerusalem and the cross of Christ, we must remember that when we connect to Christ—when we believe and receive His blood sacrifice for us—we experience an exchange of identity. Over two thousand years ago, believers were crucified with Christ.
Jesus took our sinful flesh upon Himself so that through Him we can now live in the Spirit and power of His nature and character. We are given a brand-new beginning for our lives and a new way to live each day—by faith in Christ. The salvation God offers provides a great and holy exchange, friends.
We cannot accomplish in our old sinful flesh what God requires. Instead, the Spirit of Christ fills us and empowers us to live in a way that pleases God. Gratitude should fill our hearts and minds, because we have never received a greater gift than Jesus.
Galatians 2:20 NLT 20 My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Prayer: Lord, as believers, we know we cannot continue to live in our old flesh, because we would be denying the very salvation we asked to receive. So, help us yield to the attitude, will, and emotional desires of our Savior, because we desperately need the spiritual exchange you have promised. In Jesus’ name. Amen.