How did Jesus’ death and resurrection change the way we live? Here is a third devotion on understanding our new life in Christ:

IN WORD The good news of our burial and resurrection with Jesus isn’t just that sin is overcome. So is death. Our war with sin rages for now, even though we have the keys to victory and never need to lose a single battle. But it is a very temporary war in which the outcome is certain. And the outcome isn’t just about sin; it’s about life.

The fact that Jesus is raised and we are in Him by faith means that we are raised. And if He is never to die, neither are we. That’s a glorious truth that we celebrate every Easter. It was radical to the early Christians, a reversal of an inescapable trend since the dawn of time. We forget how radical this concept is, but death was overcome at the Cross. Anything that once could have harmed us can’t.

The problem is that we still live in a world that doesn’t know this amazing truth. Oh, it knows that many of us believe it, but its citizens still grieve at what they see as the finality of death. This world allows us what it believes to be a fantasy—resurrection of the dead. It thinks we need that crutch. What unbelievers don’t realize is that they need that crutch as much as we do. In fact, none of us can live without it.

IN DEED This really is the heart of the gospel, and it’s the primary duty of every Christian to live a resurrected, victorious life. Does that mean we should live as though we have no problems? No, obviously not. That wouldn’t be genuine. But we can live as though the Scripture is true, as though there is victory over sin, triumph over death, and a resurrected life. The best way to be a witness for Jesus is not to argue with unbelievers about His lordship—although words are often very useful—but to live above the corruption and death of this world.

Let others see eternity in your perspective on events. Let them see your confidence in the midst of your trials. Let them see a Lord over your sin. Let them see Jesus. “The Christian’s task is to make the Lord Jesus visible, intelligible, and desirable.” —Leon Jones

(in “God With Us” by Chris Tiegreen)

Today’s devotion challenges us to ask how we are living our lives. Are we living preparing for retirement and death? Or are we preparing to live in eternity? Too many people, including Christians, have too short a definition of “lifespan.” The former seeks to hold on to life while the latter lives in freedom and empowerment. Christians shouldn’t just live life; Christians should live life abundantly.

Take time to read Romans 7 and 8, then 1 Corinthians 15 and 2 Corinthians 4 and 5 this week. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you to live an overcoming life. Have a blessed week! - from Singapore, Pastor Sam