NEW CHARACTER
Our new life in Christ requires that we strive to live like Jesus. We are called to develop good character and honesty.
As the fruits of the Spirit grow in us, we have a good effect on those around us. They will see our love and concern for them and they will be drawn to the character of Christ in us. This is the way God’s Kingdom multiplies and grows.
We are called to live by faith and embrace the new life that God has given us. We live honest, loyal, clean lives avoiding sexual immorality, lying, cursing and evil.
READ SCRIPTURE
1 JOHN 2:5-6, NIV
5 But if anyone obeys his word, God’s love is truly made complete in him. This is how we know we are in him:
6 Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did.
EPHESIANS 5:2-4, NIV
2 and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people.
4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.
LIVE IT
As you read the lesson, what came up in your mind?
When you think about having good character, what is an area of your life that needs change?
God wants us to experience the freedom that comes by being without sin, like Him. What sin or character issues do you need to give up to God and start living differently?
Write them down in your journal and think of one practical way you can commit to God to change today.
PRAYER
“Heavenly father, I want your new life to be evident in me. I want your love and light to shine through me but I need to give up these things to you (tell God what you want to change)…..Please remind me today to live for you and help me say no to my old self. In Jesus’ name, amen.”
