God’s power is bigger than your past. When you accept Jesus Christ, it doesn’t matter who you are, what you’ve done, or where you come from…he makes you new! He gives you a new label, no matter how you’ve been known in the past. He gives you a new purpose that you can and will grow into if you allow him to work in your life. He gives you a new future–one that is far better than you could ever create for yourself.

Scriptures

John 10:10; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Proverbs 28:13; Psalm 103:12; Isaiah 62:2-3; Jeremiah 29:11

Verse

So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!  2 Corinthians 5:17

Thought

Too many people are infected by the past. They allow their past to define their future. They allow what others think of them to define who they are. This infection robs them of their joy, peace, and contentment. It’s toxic emotionally, physically, relationally, and spiritually. Unless they get rid of this toxin, it will spread and kill them inside, and they will be the walking dead.

Questions

• Is something in your past or present robbing you of the fullness in life that Christ wants for you?
• Is what others think of you keeping you from becoming who God wants you to be—who he has called you to be in Christ?

Response

If you haven’t asked for forgiveness from whatever is holding you down, do it now! Be honest with God! He already knows, and he’s waiting for you to trust him with this! If you need to forgive someone else, ask God to help you on that path! Claim the new name, the new purpose, and the new future he has awaiting you. If you’ve asked for forgiveness but don’t feel forgiven, re-read the scriptures listed above. Focus on Psalm 103:12.

Prayer

Father God, I believe I am a new creature in Christ. The old is passed and the new is here. Help me to live like I believe it! Forgive my failings, and help me to forgive myself as I work toward the new purpose and the new future you have in store for me. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.