Ephesians 4:24
“and to put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.”
We are to put on the new self. This isn't an imaginary reset in which we talk ourselves into newness. We have been born again and have a new nature. The problem is the old self is still present. We have a choice which one will rule by which ever one we feed.
The new self must be fed. The default setting is for the old self to rule. We must choose to feed the new self. How do we do that? Reading the bible, going to church, praying and having quiet time with God, sharing our faith and being open to His guidance.
Jesus said in Matthew 16:24, 'Then Jesus told His disciples, “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me."' The old self is selfish. We are to deny that person. Hold the door, allow others to go first, be kind to all, and pray for others and so on.
The fear of putting others first is that there won't be enough for us. This is where faith comes in. We give our last dime for we know that He will care for us. Jesus also said in Matthew 6:26, "Look at the birds of the air: They do not sow or reap or gather into barns—and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?" The birds aren't stressed. They seek and find. So, we are to give generously without fear.
People get away with unjust things. They hoard, take and can be bold about it. We are to avoid these, if possible. When we are forced, we are to keep doing what is right and leave justice to God. The old self wants to engage them. We aren't to go to their level, but to give it to God and keep going His way. Jesus did this. At times the pharisees would challenge Him. He answered wonderfully.
How are we to answer these? It depends on the question. If they mock, we "answer a fool according to his folly." They aren't seeking answers, so don't share the good news. It would be casting pearls before swine. Keep answers short, not trying to engage. If they are sincere, then follow the advice in I Peter 3:14, "But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect". This person wants an answer.
Today's passage says that the new self has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth. This is how we were supposed to be. Adam and Eve started this way. We grow in these as we feed the new self. These traits are so good. They heal and are right. They are congruent with God and who He wants us to be. Righteousness has to do with right relationships. Holiness is the purity that is God and that which He gives. It doesn't mean we are perfect, just that Jesus cleansed our sins. We will stumble and sin. He cleanses us. In God's eyes we are always holy because of Jesus. From our vantage point, we will sin. We confess and He forgives.
We get better. It's called sanctification. It's the process of our lives conforming more towards that of Christ. He reveals issues to us as He sees fit. Not all at once, as we would be overwhelmed. But just an issue at a time when appropriate. Matthew 11:28-30 describe how Jesus works with us: "Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
Lord, thank You for making us born again with the new self. Thank You for this good and right way in which You have us walk.