![[Photo of a Scripture verse]](https://www.deankwilson.com/Blog_images/Ephesians_4_22-24.jpg)
| “You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” |
| —Ephesians 4:22-24 |
Have you ever seen someone that you were used to seeing in work clothes attend a wedding in a suit and been utterly amazed at how different they looked? The phrase, “He cleans up really well!” comes to mind to describe this transformation.
We get accustomed to seeing people in their normal setting and forming opinions about the way they look based on their attire. If the mechanic who works on your vehicle suddenly appears at a swanky restaurant clothed in his best suit and tie, you may not even recognize him. Likewise, if you are used to seeing a teacher dressed professionally, you may be surprised to see her shopping in the supermarket in her workout clothes.
In addition to our physical attire, we walk around with a spiritual attire, as well. It’s that spiritual clothing that the Apostle Paul was talking about when he wrote these words, found in Ephesians 4:22-24:
You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
When we acknowledge the gift of salvation that God gives us through His Son, Jesus, we become new creatures. Scripture tells us in 2 Corinthians 5:17 that the old is gone and the new has come. So, it makes perfect sense to liken our spiritual transformation to the putting on of new clothing—clothing that is appropriate for our new spiritual environment.
As we begin a new day, let’s gladly shed our old ways, our old thoughts, our old desires, our old habits, and put on a totally new appearance, transformed by the abiding love of God and energized by the Holy Spirit. This newness of life will certainly prompt people to ask us about the hope that resides within us (1 Peter 3:15).
