NEW LIFE
Romans 6:3-11
V. 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 have a new life.”
Romans 6:3-11
V. 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 have a new life.”
Jesse and Trevor’s “joke” of stealing Cassie’s bathing suit top had mind-numbing consequences. Their mischief thoroughly humiliated Cassie, and got Trevor and Jesse suspended from the public pool for three weeks. Most of their fifth grade classmates witnessed what some considered a funny practical joke. Guys high-fived each other, while the girls were appalled. But Cassie was teary-eyed and red-faced.
By the time Jesse’s Dad picked him up at the pool, Jesse’s thrill turned into his own embarrassment. He wanted to hide…or crawl in a hole and die. “Other kids were being really bad, too, Dad.” Jesse argued in his own defense. “Brian stole licorice sticks from the concession. Andy scared girls about rats being in their locker room, and Cassie was, well, she was just showing off.”
“If you’re disgraced now, Jesse, how do you think Cassie felt?” his Dad challenged. “Did she deserve the humiliation you put her through?”
“I realize that now, Dad…I just want to slink away and find a new life.”
“Well, you’re in luck, Son. You can start over, right now, today. The Holy Spirit specializes in new life. You believe that Jesus is God’s Son, and died for you, don’t you?”
Jesse nodded his head and gulped, diverting his eyes by looking outside the car window.
“New life begins when you choose to accept Jesus’ offer of forgiveness of sins…which includes salvation. He does not condemn you; He sets you free to live a life for Him.” Jesse’s Dad paused, looking at his Son. “Your sinful nature didn’t disappear at salvation, Jess. We need to repent of our sins and refuse to give sin power over our lives. Every day!”
Jesse silently studied his folded hands resting on his legs. Before arriving home, he patted his Dad’s arm and whispered, “Thanks, Dad. I will repent to God, and apologize to Cassie, tomorrow."
"Will I be grounded?" he asked aloud.
Take Home Nugget
By committing our will to the Spirit’s authority every day, He will lead us and eliminate sinful thoughts, actions, and habits that mess up our lives. He has the power of almighty God, Who raised Jesus from the dead. So, He can lift you out of any situation in which you’re buried.
J.D. Griffith
Sin’s lure may look like freedom
But in its grip we’re bound;
It’s when we’re bound to Jesus
Real freedom will be found.
D. De Haan
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