Made New in Christ – Beloved Women - February 1, 2019
READ
Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. - 1 Timothy 1:15-16 ESV
TODAY’S ENCOURAGEMENT
When I think of someone truly made new in Christ, I think of the Apostle Paul. Once a killer of Christians he converted to Christianity, planted much of the early church, and wrote most of the New Testament. In his writing, Paul was upfront about his past. He never denied it. But whenever he spoke of his past, it wasn't to wallow in self-pity but to glorify God.
His testimony was "Yes my past is ugly, but that ugly past is now only a sign of how great my God is. If He can make me new, He can do it for anyone."
I don't care what you've done in the past, Jesus came so you can be made new.
Maybe you think everything is your fault or responsibility. Maybe you think you are not worth good things happening to you. Maybe you feel like everyone is against you or nothing good will ever happen to you.
If we want to be made new, we must have God's grace and mercy in the forefront of our minds. Reminding ourselves that no matter how great the trial, heavy the sin, or deep the pain, God is greater.
PRAY
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for all the ways You’ve redeemed my past. I pray for the courage to trust your forgiveness and love for me that I may experience new life in You. In Jesus Christ Name, I pray. Amen.
REFLECT
Is there anything you need to forgive yourself for that God has already forgiven?
CONNECT
Find more encouragement from Christina Patterson by signing up for her free weekly video Bible Studies here and take a look at her book “Daughters of Fire: Igniting Your Passion for God in an Increasingly Dark World.”
RELATED RESOURCE
Don’t let a busy life stop you from spending time in God’s Word. The LIFE Bible Journal is here it help you reap the benefits of consistently studying the Bible. Each study page guides you through your personal Bible study helping you to practically understand and apply God’s Word to your everyday life. See how simply Bible study can be with the LIFE Bible Journal. Click here to get your LIFE Bible Journal today!
© 2019 by Christina Patterson. All rights reserved.
For more Beloved encouragement including Daily Devotionals, practical advice for everyday Christian living, Bible Studies, and more be sure to visit us at www.belovedwomen.org.