You’re alive in Christ!

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.— Galatians 2:20

A young music minister had just been called to lead worship at his very first church. He’d been thoroughly trained, spent years honing his skills, and he was ready to embrace his leadership role.

He showed up on his first Sunday beaming from ear to ear. And though admittedly a little bit nervous, he was thrilled to lead his new congregation in what he expected to be a moving time of worship.

Sure enough, everything went great. He didn’t stumble once, the choir was pitch-perfect, and the congregation was filled with the Spirit. At one point, the young minister was sure he heard angels singing along!

At the end of the worship service, the young man stepped up to the microphone to read the benediction. Rightfully happy with how well the service had gone, he read the passage in joyful unison with the congregation. Then, at the very last second as he dismissed the church, he said…

“Have a wonderful Sunday, you are all deceased.”

It’s certainly not what the minister intended to say, but what a great reminder that we’ve all been crucified with Christ!

The power of sin no longer has hold on you because you’ve died to your flesh and been made alive through faith in Jesus.

So don’t let sin hold you back today. Remember that who you were is dead, and having died to live, you’re now a walking, breathing example of the hope of the Gospel.

Prayer Challenge

Ask God to help you live by faith in Jesus and walk in the power of His resurrection.

Questions for thought

What would it look like in your life if you “lived by faith” today?

How might living by faith point people around you to Jesus?