I have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. That life which I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself up for me. Galatians 2:20 WEB
Paul’s bold statement of faith is one of the most often quoted scriptures in the New Testament. This straightforward acknowledgement of a new life in Christ speaks directly of the transformation that takes place when we place our trust in Jesus. Crucified with Christ, the sinful man longer lives, but the righteousness of the Lord lives within us.
Paul’s words in the first portion of this verse indicate his death to sin. Accepting the truth of our own sinful nature is the first step to repentance. When we put our faith in Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, we receive forgiveness through the grace of God and pass from death to life in Christ.
Live in Obedience
Jesus directs each believer to follow his example saying in Matthew 16:24, “If anyone desires to come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. WEB” In repentance, we turn from our sin and begin serving God. Through belief in Christ, we live our lives differently than before. Loving God and his Son, we live in obedience to his holy word. Our flesh is, as Paul said, “crucified with Christ.”
Sin separates us from God but faith in Christ restores sinners to right standing with the Lord. Paul wrote in Romans 6:23, “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. KJV”
Jesus received the penalty of our sins on the cross. When we trust that his death covers the cost of our sin, our flesh is crucified with Christ. The sinful man dies. That sinful man is replaced with the resurrected Christ.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for setting me free from sin. Thank you for your grace and forgiveness. Help me to live in accordance with your holy word. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: I Wait for the Lord
