Putting on our new self is really important for Christians. It will affect the way we live our lives. It will affect the way that we receive the redemptive power of Jesus Christ. It has an impact on every aspect of our lives. Putting on the new self is the way to live out that new life that God gives us.
This is critical because it shows that a real meeting with God has taken place and the transformation of our hearts has begun.
“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry” (Colossians 3:2-5, ESV).
Some people read this verse and set to work trying to put on this new self with their own efforts. If we do this, though, we’re going to be disappointed. Rules, regulations and ‘self-made religion’ cannot help us put on this new self.
This is what Paul meant in Colossians 2:23 when he said, “These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body…” Paul is telling the Colossian church to be careful that they don’t try to move themselves to the kingdom of light in their own strength.
Trying to be spiritual and putting on this new self in our own strength will fail eventually. Instead, every day when you wake up, ask God for the grace of the new self. Ask for him to give you a soft heart toward his will and the good of others.