My cousin Tianna sends a daily scripture verse and encouragement faithfully in our cousin text group. A couple of days ago our reading included this verse:
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV
Actually, it was in the New International Version in our group text. I have it memorized in King James. Here it is in NIV:
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” 2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV
Anyone??
The word “anyone” stood out for me in the NIV version. It’s like I read this scripture for the very first time with new eyes. What came to mind – ANYONE who has confessed Christ has the potential to alter their ways.
It hit me like a ton of bricks and now I am repenting from viewing that scripture with an extremely selfish eye. I often consider how I am and have become a new creature. Do I have enough faith and trust in God that I believe that others have the opportunity to change too? Do I have enough hope within me?
If God can do the miraculous feat within me of creating newness and shifting my perspective and ways – why can’t I believe he can do it in others?
I’m not suggesting we blindly believe and assume everyone changes overnight. We’re all through Christ works in progress. What I am saying is – change and newness is possible. With man things are impossible, but with God all things are possible . (Matthew 19:26 , Mark 10:27) If God did it in you, He can accomplish change in others.
Newness actually happens within us when we make this change in thought process. It is contrary to human nature to think of others. That’s why it is written and pointed out in Galatians:
“As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” Galatians 6:10 KJV
We need to pray in earnest expectation for the change/newness in all other believers. We need to move into newness by changing our mindset. We need to have hope for change and a shift for newness in others.
lifeandgodliness 