"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come; the old is gone, the new is here!" ~ 2 Corinthians 5:17

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come; the old is gone, the new is here!" ~ 2 Corinthians 5:17

The Greek language has a couple of words that mean new - the one used in this verse means COMPLETELY new - entirely different.  That's exciting, isn't it? When we start a new year, it's fresh and full of hope, but quickly settles in to old routines and habits. Resolutions forgotten.

But God tells us that when we believe in Jesus Christ, the old 'me' is gone.  Ephesians 4:23-24a says, "Let the Spirit change your way of thinking and make you into a new person. You were created to be like God" and Romans 12:2 "Do not conform yourselves to the standards of this world, but let God transform you inwardly by a complete change of your mind."  We are used to hearing "be transformed by the renewal of your mind" - but I find that if I read different translations, it becomes new again (pun not intended).

We cling so desperately to that old me - it feels familiar and safe. But that is squashing the Holy Spirit (Eph 4:30), Who "gives you life, because Christ made you right with God." (Romans 8:20).  This renewing is a daily deal - even moment by moment.  God never gets tired of our shenanigans - He is ever present to wash off that old me.

Paul goes on to tell them that they can't do it on their own - but with the Holy Spirit, all things are possible.  Can you hear Him talking to you?  Listen...hear the whisper of the Holy Spirit, "You are NEW.  Every day you are renewed. I know you messed up, but God's love is greater.  Nothing can separate you from Our love. Put off that old human and wear the new one proudly, for it was made in Our image - We will help you every step of the way."

Written by: Bonnie Chovanec, 2025