DAILY DEVOTION, Sept. 4, 2021

Paul spends considerable time in Chapters 1 and 2 of Galatians defending the Gospel and his own ministry. Chapter two ends with this great statement. “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. ²¹ I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain” (Galatians 2:20-21).

Faith brings the resurrected Christ into our souls. His presence is so powerful that Paul is no longer just “Paul.” Christ living in him has utterly transformed him. That is what faith does, whether in Paul or us. The law can never do for us what Christ does. Paul is now living by faith in the Son of God. As we follow Paul’s example, we also receive the transforming presence of Jesus in our souls.

Paul speaks of being crucified with Christ. I think he means that by faith, his old way of life has died. He now lives a new life with Christ at the center. We should be able to read the above verse and say, “Yes, those words apply to me also.” Perhaps you are thinking, “But I’m no Apostle Paul.” True, our service to Christ will surely be less than his. But, nevertheless, Christ always indwells and transforms those who trust in him.

Father, how grateful I am to leave behind my old life and live a new life in Christ. While my accomplishments are small compared to Paul, I thank You that I know I belong to Him by faith.  Lord Jesus, abide with me and use me in some way to serve You in Your kingdom. Amen.