Galatians 2:20
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.
Beloved, the starting point to following Jesus is affirming the death of our old sinful nature (see also Luke 9:23). That happens when we identify with the death of Jesus Christ on Calvary. In fact, victorious Christians know that Jesus’ death was also theirs in a sense. That’s why baptism is so crucial (Rom 6:4).
But the sense of dying to self shouldn’t end with immersion. We must continue to reckon ourselves dead to sin and alive to God. After reckoning ourselves dead to sin, we must then intentionally affirm the presence of Christ in our lives. It’s not good enough to quietly know this truth deep down in your heart. Rather daily confess by faith that Christ dwells in you and you in Him. Your faith in the heart must be echoed by the words of your mouth.
Let me ask you this, beloved, what presence do you usually affirm in your life? Are you one of those who’s always reciting their failures, weaknesses and disadvantages? Are you in the habit of reciting your fears, doubts and lack? Are you always talking about curses, devils and problems? It ought not to be so!
Let us constantly say with Paul, “It is no longer I that lives, but Christ who lives in me”. This is a powerful confession beloved. When you so affirm the presence of the Anointed One and His Anointing in you, His life, power and wisdom will begin to flow in and through you. And your Christianity will count!
Pastor Josh