Followers of Jesus should intentionally put to death the old man and pursue the character of Christ. Since God has lavished His love on us, we should joyfully strive to put on the character of our Savior. We are chosen by God, justified, and beloved, not because of our works but according to His own purpose and grace. Therefore, we are to glorify Him with our lives.
We should cultivate the traits of Jesus in order to glorify Him. Putting off the old man is not easy, but we are complete in Christ, and we are to live out of that truth. It requires a conscious effort to resist our sinful desires and to conform our thoughts and actions to the will of God. But it is essential for our spiritual growth and for the glory of God. We are to put on compassion, kindness, humility, and patience. As we seek to live these out, we must remember how God has shown them to us.
Additionally, we should be living testimonies of the grace of God by forgiving others as Jesus forgave us. We cannot not do this in our own strength. God has given us His Spirit, and He will enable us. But if we practice these virtues without love, it is legalism. Love is the motivation that must cause us to do these good works. This strengthens the unity of the body of Christ. Let us therefore be intentional about putting off the old man and putting on Christ. Let us seek to be filled with the Holy Spirit and to walk in obedience to God's Word. And let us do all things for the glory of God. |
