Observation:
Paul is saying that because of Christ how we judge ourselves and others is forever changed; or at least it should be. We are no longer held captive by the standards that the world sets. The way we define beauty is different, the way we define success, the way we define love, all different. Because of this new definition, we are a new creature. We can look at urselves in a new way.
What does new mean? Well, first it means we are new spiritually. What or Who directs our steps has changed. Because of this inner change, many other things will change. How we respond to adversity changes, how we love others changes, he we meet look at the world changes, even the route of life changes.
Application:
Each day I wake up and my body looks the same if not worse then it did the day, or year before. I actually make less money now than I did at 17 years of age. I have less Facebook friends then most musicians I know. Hmm, according to the worlds standards I am not beautiful, successful, or loving. It looks like this new creation God is making isn't very good at all, well at least according to the world. This is a conversation with God that I've had a few times. I ask God how it glorifies Him that on the outside I seem considerably less than I use too.
However, God reminds me of the new in me...Him. I may not have many friends, but I love deeply and faithfully. I may not have the physical beauty that I use to, but His sweetness in me makes me beautiful! I may not make much money, but I am storing up treasures in heaven that won't be destroyed. I am changed and made new in Christ!
Prayer:
Father, thank You for making me new. You continue to pour Yourself over me, making me more and more like You. Thank You for the reminder that I am new. Help me to anchor to these words when I struggle with comparing myself to the worlds standards.
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