All Things New: 21 Day DevotionalExemple

New Wine in New Wineskins

Are you one of those people who enjoy new things? If you enjoy change, the word "new" is mostly exciting. But for those of us who do not like change, “new” is mostly stressful! But if we are honest, those times when we were willing to be stretched by new experiences usually led to seasons of growth. When I became a parent for the first time, I was stressed! Half the time, I was unsure if what I was doing was right, and there was no sending the baby back! Jokes aside, parenthood brought on a rapid season of growth which required me to dismantle many unhelpful ways of thinking and immediately replace them with new and helpful ones.

The analogy in Mark 2 that Jesus used is very apt. When new wine is being fermented, it releases gases. A new wineskin is pliable and can withstand the expansion caused by the gases. Putting new wine into old wineskin which is no longer pliable is asking for trouble. The expansion of fermenting gases will stress it beyond its breaking point, causing the old wineskin to burst, and both wine and skin will be lost. 

In the same way, we cannot have a fresh experience of God with an old mindset. 

Just like the ten spies who brought back a bad report of the Promised Land. God had new territories and conquests in mind for Israel but the ten spies saw themselves as grasshoppers and continued with their slavish mentality. Their actions brought about a great setback for their generation.

This is why the Bible tells us that our minds need to be constantly renewed by meditating on God’s word. 

As we step into a new season, we need a new mindset. Are we ready for a change?

Reflection

What are areas or circumstances of your life you feel will “never change”? Take some time to allow God to change your mindsets and perspective.

What are some new things that you can attempt for God or new ways you can serve Him in this New Year?

Prayer

God, renew my mind through Your word. Give me Your perspective, to look at my circumstances in a fresh way. Give me a new attitude, to serve You with courage. I am ready to learn, change and grow. Make me pliable Lord.