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A New You in Christ

Maturing in Christ is becoming like Christ (Ephesians 4:13). It doesn't depend on what others are saying or doing, but how closely you follow in Jesus' footsteps. It's personal. The Bible says to keep God's Word in the forefront of your mind (Deuteronomy 11:18 paraphrased), which is to obey His commands and increase your understanding of who He is.

Even when sermons are spot-on, the fellowship is good, and circumstances are tolerable, an unreconciled past always has a way of creeping back in. And if you aren't mindful of why you are following Jesus, it can lead to a total disconnect of faith. Have you thanked Jesus for your "why?"

For over 20 years of my adult life, I carried my pain along with me when worshipping in church, serving in the community, and being among my family and friends. I wasn't willing to accept my why in its entirety, and I selfishly wanted people to see me for who I wanted to be, rather than who I was in Christ as a result of everything bad or good that happened in my life.

The apostle Paul was familiar with legalistic faith that wasn't personal, which resulted in his persecuting followers of Jesus. It took being struck with temporary blindness from the Lord to be reformed, and after he became a follower of Jesus, he suffered many trials throughout the duration of his life. Yet he still found time to focus all his thoughts and energy on serving the Savior through his selfless love of the church. He even wrote about his trials to urge his congregation to be content in all circumstances (Philippians 4:11) and give thanks (Ephesians 5:20). This is also echoed by James in James 1:3-4, which urges the church to persevere so that faith can be mature.

Perseverance is walking through trials and serving the Lord with a full and grateful heart. I didn't have that in me until I was humbled to understand my attitude toward pain was that of a victim and not a victor! I was being selfish in hiding my pain. 

By professing your pain, God will be glorified in unexpected ways. What you endured might be just what they needed for their own healing...or, their story may give you the courage to share yours with them.

Reflect:

• List all the painful moments in your life. As you reflect on each one, are there any in which you have been made stronger in some way? How has that affected your faith? 
• Are there any painful memories you need help healing from right now?

Apply:

Bring your list of pain to God in this prayer of thanksgiving:

Lord,

Thank You for reminding me to worship You, even when it hurts. I bring my pain to the cross, asking You to show me how to take my brokenness and turn it into praise. I give you (list the items you wrote down) and I ask for Your peace to settle upon my heart. Show me where I can serve others because of what You've brought me through.

In Jesus' name, amen.