To Change Us Part 1

Today, we are studying the importance of baptism and how it changes us. I’d like to begin with a simple prayer, and I hope you will join along as we continue with today’s devotion:

Jesus, thank You for making a way for all of us to start new and fresh. Just like taking a shower and putting on clean clothes, Your baptism offers a spiritual way to change our current direction and follow a new path. Please walk with me today as I interact with others, and as I go through my daily duties and tasks, and please be with me in these next few moments of study and reflection. Amen.

Galatians 3:27 (NLT)
²⁷And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes.

Although I have never personally launched a warhead missile, several of my shipmates onboard NIMITZ class nuclear aircraft carriers have. In particular, I am most familiar with the rolling airframe missiles (RAMs), which have been tested and used in enemy territory for approximately the last 30 years. These missiles have a range of about 5 miles or 9 kilometers. An interesting thing about RAMs: when they are launched, they are guided in a particular trajectory or line of fire. However, unlike the bullet in a gun, which after firing can only follow one path, a RAM, with the help of a radar, can change its course into a new or redirected line of fire.

Sometimes, we think that our past actions have catapulted us so far in a particular direction that there is no changing course. But this simply isn’t true! As Paul reminded the Christians in Galatia, once we have been united with Christ through baptism, we have put on a “new outfit,” and His power (much like the redirecting force of a radar) changes us and sets us on a new course. How comforting to know there is a Force greater than ourselves that can not only save us from our past explosions, misfires, and faults, but can also set us on the best possible pathway for life!

Is there a step or course of action different from your current path that God is calling you to? Ask God to help you change your current trajectory in this area.

Have you made the decision to be baptized and take that big step towards a life change? If you have questions about baptism, our Tree Church leaders are here to answer and assist.

After spending some time to reflect on these questions, take your fears and needs to God in honest prayer. Below are a few prompts to help get you started.

Ask God to help you identify any current paths that are not pleasing to Him.  

Ask God to guide and redirect you on the new path that Christ is asking you to walk.

May God’s perfect peace encourage and strengthen you today as you walk in His way!