How to Live as a New Creation: New Year, New Life in Christ

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17, NIV)

The moment you make the life-changing decision to accept Jesus into your heart, your life is forever changed. Scripture says that those who are in Christ are a new creation. This means everything in your life before you knew Jesus––your sin, wrongdoings, and old way of life––are washed away and you have a clean slate. You are made new: holy, pure, and righteous. And you can live as a new creation.

It doesn’t matter if you are a new Christian or have been a follower of Jesus for many years, this concept can be hard to grasp. Jesus says you are a new creation, but you don’t necessarily feel “new.” Your past is still your past. You may even still have to deal with the consequences of your sin. So, how can you really be “new” if nothing changes? 

It comes down to what defines you. While your past is still there, it no longer defines you or has control over your life. When you ask Jesus to forgive your sins, and you give your life to Him, He now defines you. And how Christ defines His children is new: holy, pure, and righteous. 

So, how do you live as a new creation? Here are 3 tips for living this new year as the new creation that you are in Christ. 

1. Repent of Your Sin (again and again)

When you first decided to follow Jesus, you likely prayed to God to forgive you of your sins. This initial repentance is an act of humility that invites Jesus into your heart. However, it isn’t the only time you will have to repent. Even though you are made new in Jesus, you are still human. This means you will still “mess up.” You will still sin. The difference is, now you have a place to seek and find forgiveness when you do. 

Now, this doesn’t mean that you have to continuously ask God to forgive one mistake. Once you repent––admit your wrongdoing––and pray for forgiveness, you are instantly forgiven. Each time you make a mistake is an opportunity to turn to God and receive His grace, forgiveness, and mercy. And the more you grow in your identity and relationship with Christ, the more your actions will start to align with the new creation that you are. 

2. Constantly Review Your Mind 

Living in Christ is a daily decision. Because you have free will, you get to choose how you will live and if you will live your life as the new creation that you are. Our world is so saturated with messages that go against the way of Christ. You are called to stand out. 

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12:1-2, NIV).

When you renew your mind it changes your focus from a worldly one to an eternal one. The things of this world become less appealing when you focus on Jesus and the eternal life in heaven He promises those who love Him. 

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Philippians 4:8, NIV).

3. Share Your Faith Boldly 

As a Christ-follower, you are called to share your faith with others. In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus says: “‘Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’”

While there are many ways to share about Jesus, at All Things By Faith, we encourage you to wear Christian t-shirts to boldly proclaim your faith. Our mission is to provide you with Christian apparel that inspires you to share about Jesus with others by what you wear. Using sound theology, all of our clothes and accessories speak Truth. Whether you want to showcase your favorite scripture or be a beacon of hope as we seek to establish a “new normal” these days, Christian t-shirts are a fun and unique way to do it. With over 130 graphic designs, you can find Christian clothing for the whole family. 

Live As a New Creation with All Things By Faith

While there are many resources available to help you grow in your relationship with Christ––your church, friends and family, small group, and countless online resources––we also hope to be a source of encouragement for you. From our Christian t-shirts, sweatshirts, coffee mugs, jewelry, and more to our blog posts where we share practical tips for living as a new creation in Christ every day, we are here for you. 

Find your favorite designs and shop All Things By Faith today!

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17, NIV)