I’m the sort of person who really likes predictability and routine. Subsequently, I’m often not a fan of new things. When I have a daily routine that works, I don’t like for it to be interrupted. When I have a pair of walking shoes that I really like, I loathe when they get so worn out that I have to replace them.
Sometimes I really need new things, though. Once I get them, I realize that they’re beneficial. When I get new socks to replace my threadbare ones, I feel like a queen. When I’m forced to make a change in one of my routines, I often find that the change leads to increased productivity.
Easter thrusts new things—very consequential things—into the spotlight. Because of Christ’s resurrection, we have the opportunity to put off our old sinful selves and become new (Ephesians 4:22-24, 2 Corinthians 5:17).
Becoming a new creature in Christ means that we experience newness in many facets of our lives.
- We have new mercies from Him each morning (Lamentations 3:22-24).
- We have renewed strength when we are tired or weak (Isaiah 40:31).
- We have forgiveness and a renewed spirit each time we sin (Psalm 51:10).
- We have renewed minds that keep us from being conformed to the world (Romans 12:2).
- We have the assurance that someday we will inhabit a new heaven and new earth with the Lord (Revelation 21).
These are new things that I truly need and can embrace without hesitation!
Let’s not allow budding trees or baby chicks to distract us this Easter. When we see these new things, let’s turn our thoughts to the One who makes all things new.
What new thing is the Lord doing in your life this spring?
Shared at the following link parties:
Coffee and Conversation, Grace and Truth, Living Proverbs 31, Titus 2 Tuesday, and Word Filled Wednesday.
Even though I have read the verses you listed many, many times, I LOVED how you grouped them together with the wonderful insight of all the promises of newness and renewing that we receive from Christ on a daily basis.
Thank you for sharing such an encouraging and hope-filled post!
Blessings to you.
Hi Karen,
Newness is definitely a theme throughout Scripture. I’m glad because I need renewing all of the time!
Shannon, I think this is such a great reflection! There are many times where I get stuck in a rut of certain struggles or difficulties I’m going through, and let that all overwhelm me. But, it is so vital to come to Christ and be renewed, focusing on how He offers us abundant life and joy! 🙂
Hi AnneMarie,
It’s so much better when we do this, isn’t it?
Thank you, Shannon. Christ has made all things new. Glorious, isn’t it?
I love the verses you chose to showcase. Especially Romans 12:2. Have a wonderful day.
I’m visiting from #w2wwordfilledwednesday
Romans 12:2 has been an anchoring verse in my life for a long time.. Yes, the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
Another verse I want to share that is truly about being renewed:
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Galatians 2:20
Shannon, thanking for blessings with God’s promises
Thanks, Joon, for adding this verse! It is perhaps the epitome of renewal.
Thanks for visiting, Gleniece. Indeed, it is glorious!
I loved your post and especially your last comment, “Let’s not allow budding trees and chicks to distract us from this Easter!” I am visiting from Grace and Truth Link up. God Bless, Happy Resurrection Day:)
Hi Lisa,
Sometimes I find it easy to get distracted, but I want my focus to remain on what is truly important. Thanks for visiting and have a blessed Easter!
I have a print that says “All Things New” by my back door. It is one of my favorite truths and I enjoyed reading your beautiful post.
I love posting meaningful phrases like this around the house, Amy. Indeed, it is a great truth!
Easter is my favorite holiday for this very reason! A reminder that God is always working something new in me.
Hi Anne,
It’s great that the “new things” aren’t reserved for one time of the year, isn’t it?
I love that our God delights in new things, and especially that He makes US into a new creation, conforming us to the image of His Son. Thank you for sharing this with us at Grace & Truth!
That is the best renewal of them all, Jennifer. Thanks for visiting!