I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I do not nullify the grace of God, for if righteousness were through the law, then Christ died for no purpose.

Galatians 2:20-21(ESV)

 

We are not saved to become better people, but to be made into new creations in Christ. Our past no longer defines us or controls us. We instead follow Christ in a new way of living and thinking. We agree with Paul when he declares, “it is no longer I, but Christ who lives in me.” This is what it truly means to be a Christian. It is to know Christ and the fullness of His resurrection life in us.

While salvation is by grace, which means we cannot earn it, we learn to live out the truth of the gospel. As far as God is concerned, you were included in Christ’s death and resurrection, therefore sin has lost its power over you, and you can overcome sinful habits. Many of us, however, struggle to break free from our sinful habits because we base our faith on our own failed experiences rather than living in the reality of the gospel.

Do not nullify God’s grace because of spiritual shortcomings. God is not ashamed of you. He is not disappointed with you. He is not embarrassed by you. God’s love for you is unchanging and unchangeable, and so perfect in every way. This is what makes the gospel so great and amazing. Give yourself grace because God’s grace is at work within you.

Pray that the Holy Spirit will awaken you to a fresh understanding of your identity in Christ and empower you to walk in the richness of the new creation life. Christ, who is alive and active, has given you the ability through His Spirit to live righteously before Him. With that in mind, you can live victoriously and be free from all sinful habits.