If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here. —2 Corinthians 5:17

Click Here to Read Today’s Scripture:  2 Corinthians 5

When we think of a university student, we usually think of someone who’s broke, and for good reason. Along with hefty tuition fees, living costs continue to soar. All this was heavy on my mind as I completed another strenuous week of school, my gas tank running empty. Nevertheless, I convinced myself I deserved a treat from my favorite café. I ordered my usual caramel macchiato and paid the cashier with a fifty-dollar bill. She handed me back a fifty and a twenty rather than two twenties. Without hesitation, I pointed out her mistake. “I would have gone home richer,” I joked. At first, my interaction seemed automatic, but upon further reflection I realized that a few years ago I wouldn’t have been so eager to give back that extra thirty dollars. So, what changed? 

I’ve been allowing God to change my life. The apostle Paul says, “if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here” (2 Corinthians 5:17). At first glance this verse seems straightforward, and many may assume it refers to the grand changes in someone’s life. They aren’t wrong, but it’s easy to discount the smaller changes that occur as well. Something as simple as bidding people the time of day, holding the door open for the person behind you, or being patient with a service worker. But change, big and small, doesn’t just happen. Through God’s grace, we have the opportunity to change our lives. 

And it doesn’t stop at the salvation prayer.  It’s actively pursuing God in a way that motivates us to change how we interact with others and show the love of God to the world. It’s praying without ceasing, reading the Bible, and seeking out a spiritual mentor who can guide us. May we allow the Holy Spirit to help us through these key steps in changing our old behavior and becoming new creations. 

Reflection: What are some changes you would like to see in your life? In what ways can you actively seek God's help with these? 

Prayer starter:

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for your grace over my life. I bring to you my old habits and give you my life. Please work in me to become more like Christ each day and be a light to the world.

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