What practical steps help us embody "true righteousness and holiness" today? The Call: “Put On the New Self” “and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” (Ephesians 4:24) Step 1: Renew the Mind with Truth • Daily Scripture reading shapes thoughts (Romans 12:2). • Memorize key verses that confront old habits—Psalm 119:11 calls this storing the word in the heart. • Meditate, not just skim; let the Spirit press truth into attitudes (Joshua 1:8). Step 2: Rely on the Spirit’s Power • “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). • Begin each morning consciously yielding plans, emotions, and decisions to Him. • Watch for promptings—quick inner nudges to obey, repent, or speak encouragement. Step 3: Speak Life • “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor” (Ephesians 4:25). • Filter every word through: Is it true? loving? necessary? (cf. 4:29). • Replace sarcasm, gossip, and flattery with words that build up. Step 4: Work with Integrity • “He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must labor, doing good with his own hands” (Ephesians 4:28). • Approach every task—paid or unpaid—as service to Christ (Colossians 3:23–24). • Keep commitments, arrive on time, refuse shortcuts that compromise honesty. Step 5: Choose Purity • “But among you, as is proper for saints, there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality” (Ephesians 5:3). • Set clear boundaries for media, conversations, and relationships. • Invite trusted believers to ask about online habits and private moments (Proverbs 27:17). Step 6: Practice Relational Grace • “Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32). • Forgive quickly—unresolved bitterness grieves the Spirit (4:30–31). • Actively look for ways to serve spouses, children, coworkers (Philippians 2:3–4). Step 7: Stay Accountable in Community • “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together” (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Join a local church, small group, or discipleship triad. • Share victories and failures openly; pray for one another (James 5:16). Living It Out: A Daily Checklist □ Read and reflect on at least one chapter of Scripture. □ Surrender plans to the Spirit before stepping into the day. □ Commit to speak only what strengthens others. □ Perform each task with excellence and honesty. □ Guard eyes, ears, and heart from impurity. □ Extend kindness and quick forgiveness. □ Connect with believers for encouragement and accountability. Consistently walking through these practices lets the “new self” become visible, making true righteousness and holiness a present-day reality instead of a distant ideal. |
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