Choice: Blessing Over Death

March 16, 2025

Choose life, so that you and your children may live.

Celebrate the Lord, Today, we embark on a journey of spiritual awakening, exploring the profound impact of our thoughts and beliefs. As children of God, our minds are powerful instruments, capable of shaping our reality and drawing us closer to His divine presence. The world bombards us with negativity, doubt, and fear, but we have the power to resist these influences and embrace the truth of God's word. Let us delve into the scriptures and discover how we can renew our minds in Christ in choosing Life over death

The Futility of Worldly Thinking

Ephesians 4:17-18 (NIV): "So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts."

The Apostle Paul, writing to the Ephesians, emphasizes the stark contrast between the thinking of the world and the thinking of Christ. The Gentiles, those living outside of a relationship with God, are described as having "futility of thinking." This futility refers to the emptiness, purposelessness, and ultimate fruitlessness of a life disconnected from God. Their thoughts revolve around worldly pursuits, material possessions, and fleeting pleasures, which ultimately leave them feeling empty and unfulfilled. This emptiness stems from a lack of understanding of God's purpose and plan for their lives. Their hearts, hardened by sin and rebellion, prevent them from receiving the truth of the Gospel. As believers, we are called to break free from this pattern of futile thinking. We must recognize the lies of the enemy and replace them with the truth of God's word.

Choosing Life and Blessing

Deuteronomy 30:19 (NIV): "This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live."

Moses, in his final address to the Israelites, presents them with a powerful choice: life or death, blessings or curses. This choice is not a one-time decision but a continual, daily commitment to align ourselves with God's will. He calls upon the heavens and the earth to witness this pivotal moment, emphasizing the gravity of the decision. Choosing life means embracing God's commandments, walking in obedience to His word, and trusting in His promises. It means rejecting the temptations of sin and the allure of worldly pursuits. Choosing life brings blessings not only to ourselves but also to our children and future generations. This choice is an act of faith, a declaration that we trust in God's goodness and provision. It is a commitment to live a life that honors and glorifies Him.

"Choose life, so that you and your children may live."  

This powerful exhortation reminds us that our choices have far-reaching consequences. Choosing life is not just about our own well-being but also about the legacy we leave behind.

Putting on the New Self

Ephesians 4:22-24 (NIV): "You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."

This passage describes the process of spiritual transformation that takes place when we surrender our lives to Christ. "Putting off your old self" signifies a decisive break from our former way of life, characterized by sin and disobedience. This "old self" is constantly being corrupted by deceitful desires, leading us further away from God. The renewal of our minds is essential for this transformation. We must actively replace old thought patterns with the truth of God's word. This involves studying scripture, meditating on God's promises, and surrounding ourselves with positive influences. As we renew our minds, we are empowered to "put on the new self," which is created in God's image. This new self is characterized by true righteousness and holiness, reflecting the character of Christ. This is not a passive process but an active choice to embrace our new identity in Christ.

"Put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." 

This powerful imagery reminds us that we are no longer defined by our past mistakes but by our new identity in Christ.

Conclusion

Embrace the transformative power of renewing your mind in Christ. Choose life, put on your new self, and walk in the fullness of your identity as a child of God. As you connect to the living water, you will radiate His light and bring His love to a world in need.

Reflect on This

• How can you actively renew your mind and reject worldly thinking?

  
  

Prayer

Father God, I thank you for the gift of new life in Christ. I choose to renew my mind according to your word and embrace my identity as your child I am a blessing to this world, and I walk in the fullness of your promises. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Key Takeaways

• Renew your mind and reject worldly thinking.

• Choose life and blessings over death and curses.

• Put on the new self, created in God's image.

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To dive deeper into this powerful message, watch the full sermon on our YouTube video below.