MY PERSPECTIVE, Gary Damron

Last week we focused on the gospel of New Life that Jesus brings. Paul wrote, "...if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come" (2 Corinthians 5:17). Before, we were dead in sins. But now, anyone with faith in Jesus is made alive, a new creation through the Spirit.

Even with new life, we still carry a past and a future. The past is forgiven and no longer defines us. Regarding our future, Paul assured, "He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 1:6). As God forms the character of Jesus within us, our part is to cooperate, making choices that reflect His light. Days pass quickly. We must pause and evaluate, and be intentional to prevent drifting or developing bad habits. Reflection doesn't mean living in regret; rather, it is learning to live fully in the new life given by Christ.

We begin by noticing what brings energy and encouragement: the practices, relationships, moments that have drawn us closer to God. Scripture reminds, "Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above" (James 1:17). Recognizing gifts cultivates gratitude, and softens our hearts. If a Bible verse has focused our mind - if a conversation pointed to a truth - if a worship service has lifted our heart, or an act of service gave meaning - these are worth developing as channels to nourish our inner life.

Conversely, we can look courageously at things that have not been helpful: activities, relationships, or habits that drained or drew us away from God. Some things feel good in the moment, but leave us empty or burdened afterward. Honest appraisal is not meant to produce shame, which focuses on failure and leaves us feeling stuck. Godly reflection brings clarity and invites change. David prayed, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way” (Psalm 139:23-24).

God's searching light, even if it reveals problems, means we are loved. Each of us has places where we drift: excessive screen time; relationships that lead to compromise or negativity; avoiding prayer; comparing ourself to others; even overcommitment. Identifying these patterns is the beginning of freedom, as we bring specifics into the light of the Holy Spirit. After receiving Christ, we remind ourselves we are a new creation, and old paradigms do not have final authority over our lives.

However, reflection without action is incomplete. Once we see what gives life or drains it, we can make a plan for growth. 1) Increase what works. If certain relationships strengthen our faith, make more space for them. Treat practices such as prayer, scripture reading, worship or serving, as essential in drawing closer to God. 2) Reduce what hinders. Ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom and strength to limit or remove anything that consistently draws away from God. Small, steady adjustments often reshape a life more than dramatic shifts. 3) Keep focus on Christ himself. The goal is not self-improvement, but becoming more like Jesus. Peter wrote, “As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy also in all your behavior (1 Peter 1:14-15). Ask in ordinary moments, “What would bring more of God’s goodness and light into this day?” and then move in that direction.

Holiness is being set apart for God’s purposes and aligning with His character. New life in Christ is both a gift and a calling. Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 5:15 that we no longer live for ourselves, but for the One who died and was raised on our behalf. That changes everything. Our past instructs us; our present becomes a partnership with the Spirit; and our future is in Christ who will complete the work begun with our salvation.

A simple pathway forward involves some questions. What has recently drawn me closer to God? What has pulled me away? What is one life-giving practice I can increase, and how can I keep my focus on Jesus?

Modern life doesn't naturally encourage reflection. So, we choose to stop, look honestly, give thanks for what is life-giving, and release what is harmful. As we do, we realign ourselves with the character of Christ. Thank You, Lord, for new life in Jesus. The old has passed away, and the new has come. Thank You for growth that will come through small, consistent acts of obedience.