Scripture Reading
Ezekiel 36:26–27
26 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. 27 And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws.
Romans 6:4
4 We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
The gospel is about more than becoming a better version of ourselves. God promises something much deeper: a new heart and a new Spirit.
Reflection
Being born of God means our old life no longer defines us. Through Christ, we are invited into a new way of living. God's Spirit begins reshaping our desires so that obedience isn't simply about following rules; it becomes the natural response of a heart being transformed by God.
Reflection Questions
Where can I see evidence that God has changed my desires, priorities, or character?
What part of my “old life” am I still holding onto?
What would it look like today to live from my new identity in Christ rather than returning to old habits or patterns?
Prayer
Jesus, thank You that You have not simply forgiven my old life but invited me into a new one. Continue changing my heart. Reveal the places where I am still holding onto old desires, habits, fears, and identities. Holy Spirit, form the character of Jesus in me so that my thoughts, choices, words, and relationships increasingly reflect who You created me to be. Amen.