Tag: Bible

Embracing the New Self: Transformation Through Christ

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AMY TURNER

When someone believes in Jesus, God gives them a new life. Colossians 3:10 explains that this “new self” is being renewed with true knowledge, shaped by the image of God who created it. The Apostle Paul uses words that remind us of Genesis, showing that this new life doesn’t come from human effort or the image of Adam, but from Jesus Himself.

This transformation is God’s work. We do not create the new self—it is a gift. But we do have a role. Each day, we are called to “put on” this new self, like clothing. That means choosing to live in a way that reflects Jesus. Our words, actions, and attitudes should all show who Christ is.

As the Holy Spirit guides and strengthens us, we become more like Jesus. This allows others to see Him through us. This is the hope and power of the gospel—that God remakes us to reflect His Son.

“Therefore if anyone is in Christ, this person is a new creation; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.” – 2 Corinthians 5:17

God’s Word: A Guide for Every Part of Life

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Floyd Rogers

God most often speaks to us through the Bible. It is His way of showing us who He is and what He wants for our lives. Whenever I’ve faced trouble as a believer, I’ve always found that the answers I needed were in the Scriptures.

The Bible may not give us simple facts like a math book, but that’s not its purpose. God’s Word speaks to the deeper parts of life—our decisions, our struggles, our relationships, and our hopes. There is no part of life that God doesn’t address through His Word. It truly is a guidebook meant for His children.

Because of this, we should spend time with it every day. We should take in its truth like food for the soul, letting it shape our hearts and minds. Just like the Apostle Paul encouraged, we should be spiritually rich, full of God’s wisdom. For God’s Word to speak to us, it must live in us.

Your word is a lamp to my feet
And a light to my path.

Psalm 119:105

Understanding the Source of Temptation

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AMY TURNER

Temptation is something everyone faces, but it is important to understand where it truly comes from. According to James 1:13, no one should claim that God is the source of their temptation. God is completely holy—He cannot be tempted by evil, and He does not tempt anyone to do wrong.

Many people try to explain their sinful actions by pointing to difficult situations, frustrating people, or even the influence of evil forces. While these things may be real, they are not the root cause. Sadly, some people go so far as to blame God, just as Adam and Eve once did in the garden. But the Bible clearly shows that this is not possible.

James makes it clear: sin comes from within us. It is our own wrong desires—our heart’s pull toward what is not right—that leads us to sin. God, who is pure light and the source of all life, never leads anyone to do evil.

“People ruin their lives by their own foolishness and then are angry at the Lord.”

Proverbs 19:3

Jesus’ Lesson on Change: New Wine and Old Wineskins

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AMY TURNER

In Luke 5:37–38, Jesus shares a simple image. He says that no one pours new wine into old wineskins, because the wine will cause them to break, spilling everything and ruining the skins. Instead, new wine must go into new wineskins. This lesson came when people questioned why Jesus and His disciples did not fast like others. His answer showed that when God does something new, people must also change how they respond.

As the message of Jesus spread to non-Jewish people, the early church had to rethink many old habits. Some traditions had to be left behind, while others had to be welcomed. This was not always easy, but it was necessary for God’s work to grow.

Today, this lesson still matters. We need to be willing to let go of our old habits, attitudes, and behaviors in order to fully embrace the new life that Jesus offers. Let us ask the Holy Spirit to guide us as we follow God’s fresh direction with willing hearts.

Honoring Parents is a Lifelong Responsibility

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AMY TURNER

The fifth commandment, found in Exodus 20:12, tells us to honour our father and mother so that we may enjoy a long life in the land God has given us. This command does not depend on whether our parents are perfect—because no one has perfect parents. Still, God calls us to show them honour.

As we grow up and leave our parents’ house, we are no longer required to obey them in every matter. However, respect should never end. To honour parents means treating them with dignity, speaking kindly, and never mocking or insulting them. It includes showing them care and trying to bring good into their lives.

Even when our parents are elderly and may live in a care home, we should continue to visit and value them. This is not just a nice gesture—it is our duty as their children. Honouring our parents is a lifelong responsibility that pleases God.