2017 – The Year of Death

Galatians 5:24-25 “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.” 

It’s that time of year again; it’s the time when everyone comes to the bend in the road that leaves the past behind and moves them forward into the future. It is a common practice to look back one last time to consider all that has transpired and plan for what can be accomplished in the future. In so doing many make a list of New Year resolutions. As I have thought about the days ahead, I have decided that 2017 will be the year of death.

Now don’t get too panicked. I am not planning on kicking the bucket in the near future, Lord willing. I have simply decided it is time to take seriously some struggles in my life. When Christ was crucified on the cross He became the substitute for all who believe. The One Who was perfect and holy took upon Himself the sins of the world and took the punishment in our place. Those who have faith to believe were crucified with Him. We have died and when God looks at us He no longer sees our sin but the sacrifice Jesus Christ made in our stead.

We now live our lives with the power to overcome sin because the Spirit of Jesus lives within us. But because we live in a fallen world our sinfulness often continues to control us. This isn’t necessary because we now have the power to do what is right, but we often do not choose to live by the power that God has given us.

If you, like me, examine your life carefully, you will find areas that have not completely died with Christ. There are still thought patterns and actions that persist in rising from the grave and taking on a life of their own. I don’t know about you, but I am sick of it!! I have decided that 2017 is the year of death.

We must actively and continually crucify those areas that are haunting us and bring them under control of the Holy Spirit. Walking in step with Him on a daily basis can help us realize this goal. We must ask Him to show us the areas in which we are lacking. Pray for the power to overcome them. Listen carefully for guidance in each decision, each word, and in each step of life. Ask forgiveness when we make a wrong move and continue to follow each prompting immediately.

Will you join me in my New Year’s resolution? Identify areas of your sinful nature that are still alive and well, take the bull by the horns, and crucify them. If you belong to Jesus you have the power to do this. Jesus has already accomplished the hard part in your place and all you must do is keep in step with His Spirit.

It is going to be a good year. 2017 – The Year of Death!

Love,
Mama