April 15 – Putting Off the Old Self

…to put off your former way of life, your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be renewed in the spirit of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
— Ephesians 4:22-24
 
 
Resurrection life is not only about receiving something new; it is also about releasing what no longer belongs. Paul describes spiritual growth as putting off the old self and putting on the new. The old self is shaped by patterns of thought and behavior that distort who we were created to be—selfish ambition, bitterness, dishonesty, fear, or resentment. The new self is formed in the likeness of Christ—marked by righteousness, holiness, and renewed thinking. This is not a one-time event but an ongoing process of transformation.
 
Pause and reflect on the patterns that may still cling to you. Ask yourself: What habits or attitudes feel like remnants of my old self? Where do I fall back into reactions that do not reflect Christ? What does renewal look like in this specific area of my life? Notice that Paul places renewal in the realm of the mind. As our thinking changes, our behavior follows. Spiritual formation involves cooperating with the Spirit in this daily exchange—letting go and taking up.
 
Today, identify one “old self” pattern you want to release. Name it honestly before God. Then intentionally choose its opposite expression as an act of obedience. If the pattern is impatience, practice gentleness. If it is negativity, speak gratitude. If it is harsh speech, choose restraint. Pray quietly, “Lord, help me put off the old and put on the new.” Over time, these small, repeated choices become evidence of resurrection life taking root.
 
 
Loving Father, thank You for creating me anew in Christ. Reveal the old patterns that no longer belong in my life, and give me strength to release them. Renew my mind and shape my character to reflect Your righteousness and holiness. Help me walk each day in the new life You have given me. All this I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

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