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Day 7: Putting Off the Old Self
Focus: Dying to the Old Nature
Key Passage: Colossians 3:1-11
As we move into Colossians chapter 3, Paul shifts the focus to what it means to live out our new identity in Christ. He emphasizes that being a follower of Christ means not only accepting Christ as our Savior but also leaving behind our old, sinful ways and embracing our new life in Him. Today, we’ll explore the concept of “putting off the old self” and what that looks like in practical terms.
Set Your Mind on Things Above
Paul begins this section by reminding the Colossians of their new identity in Christ:
“Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God” (Colossians 3:1).
As believers, we have been raised with Christ, meaning that we share in His resurrection life. This truth should transform the way we think and live. Paul urges us to set our minds on heavenly things rather than being consumed with earthly desires or distractions. Living a Christ-centered life requires a shift in perspective. Our priorities, values, and goals should now be shaped by our identity in Christ and His kingdom, rather than by worldly concerns.
Putting to Death the Earthly Nature
Paul doesn’t shy away from calling out the sinful behaviors that belong to our old nature. In Colossians 3:5, he instructs us to “put to death” whatever belongs to our earthly nature. This includes things like sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed. These behaviors are part of the old self that must be put off in order to live fully in the new self that Christ has given us.
Putting to death the old self is not a one-time act. It’s a daily commitment to align our thoughts, actions, and desires with Christ. This process is often referred to as sanctification—the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit to make us more like Christ. As we submit ourselves to God’s transforming power, we begin to let go of sinful habits and replace them with godly character.
Getting Rid of Sinful Practices
In Colossians 3:8, Paul continues by urging believers to rid themselves of anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language. These behaviors destroy relationships and do not reflect the love and grace of Christ. We are called to live in a way that reflects our new identity as God’s chosen people, representing His love and truth in our interactions with others.
This passage challenges us to be intentional about examining our own lives. Are there lingering attitudes, habits, or actions that reflect our old nature rather than our new identity in Christ? If so, we are called to “put them off” and replace them with Christlike behavior.
Renewed in Knowledge of Our Creator
Paul concludes this section with an important truth:
“Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator” (Colossians 3:9-10).
Our new identity in Christ means that we are continually being renewed in knowledge and growing in the image of God. This renewal happens as we grow in our understanding of God’s Word and allow the Holy Spirit to shape our character. We are not called to merely manage our sin or hide it; we are called to be transformed and renewed in the likeness of Christ.
Reflection
Take a moment to reflect on the areas of your life where you might still be holding onto “the old self.” What attitudes, habits, or behaviors do you need to let go of in order to live more fully in your new identity in Christ? Are there specific areas where God is calling you to put off the old and embrace the new?
Application
Today, reflect on the process of putting off the old self and putting on the new. Consider these questions:
- Are there sinful patterns or habits in my life that I need to put to death?
- How can I begin to set my mind more fully on things above, aligning my thoughts and desires with Christ?
Call to Action
Identify one area in your life where you need to put off the old self. Commit to praying about this area daily and seeking God’s help to overcome it. Ask the Holy Spirit to empower you to live according to your new identity in Christ.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the new life I have in Christ. Help me to put to death the sinful habits and desires that belong to my old self. Renew my mind and transform my heart so that I can reflect Your character in everything I do. Teach me to set my mind on things above, seeking to live a life that honors You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.