Brethren,
Last Easter Sunday, we celebrated our Lord Jesus’ Resurrection day. As this month ends and we begin a new one, we need to realize that it is always good to meditate on resurrection throughout the year way beyond this season.
As you meditate on the reality of the Resurrection, start by taking the time to realize that you, too, are raised with Christ! The scripture says, “Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on the earth” (Col. 3:1–2 NASB). One of the reasons you should consider things above is because in God’s eyes that’s where you are (Eph. 2:6). You are seated in a place of blessing and spiritual strength to live and walk in the newness of resurrection life.
Our resurrected life brings countless benefits, including remission of sin (Luke 24:47, Acts 2:38), right-standing with God (2 Cor. 5:21), a brand-new existence (2 Cor. 5:17), physical healing (1 Peter 2:24), wisdom from God (1 Cor. 1:30; James 1:5), supernatural strength (Phil. 4:13), authority over the devil (Mark 16:17), freedom from sin (Rom. 6:5–7), eternal life (John 5:26; 1 John 5:11), and the glorious privilege of being a child of God (John 1:12; 1 John 5:1). There are many others. Consider taking the time to write down the benefits and the scriptures that explain them. Make confessions of the scriptures and declare them often.
As you meditate on your position in Christ and confess the Word, remember that a resurrected life means a holy life. In addition to revealing the benefits of the Resurrection, the Bible tells us how to live each day. Resurrected people shouldn’t lie, cheat, steal, commit adultery, or engage in other ungodly activities (see Ephesians chapters 4–6, Col. 3:5–17). Failure to walk in the Spirit can keep us from receiving the benefits that the Lord Jesus Christ provided for us in His death, burial and resurrection.
As Christians, even though we might confess the right things, our disobedience can prevent us from receiving from God. Obedience to God and His Word are paramount to receiving and walking in the blessings of the resurrection life. Obedience keeps our confidence high and our faith effectual.
Be determined this month and beyond, to do both—walk in the Spirit and partake of the blessings Jesus died to give you!
