The New Nature

Before we get to the 'New Nature in Christ', we need to speak on the
'Old Sinful Nature'. What is the 'sinful nature'? To some, this is a
familiar teaching. But, for others, it might be a truth that you completely
haven't understood.

Regardless, just realize, you are no longer under the bondage of sin if
you have accepted Christ as your Savior and have totally surrendered
your life to Him daily and you have been changed into the 'New Man' as
Christ came and took up residence with you and in you through the
'New Birth'. Where there was only one abiding in you, now there are
two...Christ and yourself.

The 'Sinful Nature' is described in different terms depending on what
version of the Bible you read. Terms like 'the old nature', 'the spirit of
the world', or the 'flesh' all refer to the same dismal spiritual condition
common to us all.

Thinking and reacting from an 'I'- centered or 'self-focus' are marks
you are still dwelling in the 'old nature'. Our decisions are so often
based on what 'I want to do' - 'What I want to have' - 'what I think is best
for me'. Self-will, self-seeking, and self-conceit determine the direction
of our lives. In addition, the 'sinful nature', or 'the flesh' is attracted to
whatever is opposed to God, appealing to our physical senses and
human drive for success, admiration, or power over others.
When the Bible refers to 'the flesh', it doesn't mean the physical body.
It is true, the body - saying it is bad. It is true, the body is the vessel that
are sin is exposed; but, in itself, the body was and is an incredible
creation of God, who pronounced all He made was 'good'.
Understanding how the 'old nature' is expressed is essential, but we
also need to know that once we put our faith in Christ 'alone', we receive
a 'New Nature' - one that is not corrupted by sin and marked by failure
and guilt. Paul declared to every born-again believer...'You are not
controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in
you.'...Romans 8:9.

Our 'New Nature' changes us from the 'inside-out'. We have 'new
desires', 'make new decisions', and 'think new thoughts'.
My question is..'Have you seen this in your life or are you still living in
the old, gray, dead areas of your life? Or, has your life come alive in joy
and adventure and real meaning as you have surrendered all and taken
up your place beside the Risen Lord and in what He is doing on the
earth today? One...so dead...and One...so alive!!!
I hope you will take one moment to examine yourselves and think
about the inner changes of your soul in light of the New Birth, Christ

taking up total residence in us and through us, and the power of the
Lord who makes you new from the inside-out!
Which 'nature' rules your life?

Amen.

The Wilderness Preacher