“Gratitude grows in a heart that is transformed by the generous love of God.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – August 5, 2024
I have been crucified with Christ. Galatians 2:20
The first scripture I remember memorizing as a new believer in college was on a retreat in the mountains. A true mountaintop experience, this encounter with God informed my discipleship process as a nascent follower of Jesus Christ. Weighty words of the Apostle Paul: “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” These words bear a sober and transformational truth that deserves our utmost meditation and faith application. The cross is an altar of worship where death and resurrection mysteriously occur.
To be crucified with Christ is not merely a theological concept; it is a divine reality that transforms the very essence of our being. When we come to the cross of Calvary, we are not just spectators of Christ’s sacrifice but participants in His death and resurrection. The old self, with its sinful desires and worldly ambitions, is put to death. The crucifixion of Christ is our crucifixion.
This crucifixion is not a one-time event but a daily dying to self. Every morning, we must take up our cross and follow Him, putting to death the deeds of the flesh. Our sinful nature, which once held dominion over us, has been rendered powerless. The cross has broken its chains and set us free to live a new life in Christ. This is the essence of authentic followers of Jesus.
Yet, being crucified with Christ also means that it is no longer we who live but Christ who lives in us. This loving union with our Savior infuses our daily existence with His divine presence and power. Our thoughts, words, and deeds are no longer governed by our old nature but are directed by the Spirit of Christ within us. What a divine transformation! We now live a life of faith, trusting in the Son of God, who loved us and gave Himself for us. We die daily to live for God.
Consider the immeasurable love that prompted Christ to offer Himself on our behalf. The eternal Son of God left the glories of heaven to become a man, to suffer and die in our place. His love is beyond comprehension, and it compels us to live for Him who died for us. Our crucifixion with Christ is the ultimate expression of His love for us and our response of love and obedience to Him. Gratitude grows in a heart that celebrates and is transformed by the generous love of God.
By grace and in faith, let this truth permeate your soul. Embrace the crucified life with joy, knowing that it is the pathway to true freedom and abundant life. Do not be discouraged by the trials and tribulations that come your way. Remember, you are crucified with Christ, and He lives in you. His grace is sufficient, and His power is made perfect in your weakness. In the light of this divine truth, walk in the power of the crucified and risen Christ, ever mindful that your old self is dead and your new life is hidden with Christ in God. Love grows in likeness to Jesus.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for the gift of being crucified with You. Help us take up our cross daily and follow You, living by faith in Your love and grace. May Your life within us shine brightly, drawing others to Your saving embrace. Amen.
Application
How do you offer your life as a living sacrifice to the Lord?
Related Reading
Romans 6:3-8, 12:1; Philippians 2:5-11; Colossians 2:12
Worship Resource
Chris Davenport: Thunder in the Desert
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