Romans 6:4 – Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

The idea behind the word for baptized is “to immerse or overwhelm something.” Being Water baptized into Christ is a dramatization or “acting out” of the believer’s identification with Jesus in His death and resurrection. Just as you are identified with Christ in His death, likewise you are identified with Christ in His resurrection. You are joined today to a living Christ. In other words, your sins have already been judged; you are already raised, and you are already seated with Christ in heaven. Listen, there are only two places for your sins, either they were on Christ when he died for you over two thousand years ago, because you have trusted Him as your Savior, or they are on you today, and judgment is ahead for you. What a wonderful reminder this week, to know that the old you was buried with Jesus in baptism and you are united with His life in every way. But even more wonderful, is the fact that you can walk in the newness of the resurrected life that Jesus has for you. Having a totally new perspective and outlook on the world around you. Seeing things with the eyes of Christ and the heart of the Lord.

Challenge:

I want you to think of all the ways that you have been blessed by the Lord. Think of the blessing of your sins being forgiven. Think about the blessing of your family and fellow believers. Think about the fact that you are going to be with God in heaven one day. Then ask yourself this question, “Am I walking in the newness of life that God has for me?” Paul says you SHOULD walk in newness of life today and everyday! I challenge you every day this week, to ask the Lord to give you opportunities to bless others in a way they would never expect. If God has gifted you uniquely, and I’m sure He has, then use those gifts for His glory. Has He gifted you with the ability to meet someones financial need? Ask the Holy Spirit who you are to help. Has God given you the ability to share His Word in a simple and powerful way? Let your co-worker know how your morning devotion spoke to your heart. Use your God given abilities this week to show others just how much God loves them and cares for them. May the Lord bless you and your week.