Beautiful Word Devotional #69

We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.

Romans 6:4

Being baptized is not only an act of obedience to God’s command, but it offers a picture of the Christian life.

When we are submerged in the water, we identify with the death of Jesus. Baptism also marks that our old life has been crucified and that our sin has been gloriously removed.

When we emerge from under the waves, resurrection takes on new meaning. We couldn’t breathe; now we can. We couldn’t see clearly; now we can. We were near death; now we are alive.

And we are alive to a brand-new life. No matter how discouraged you may be, you are loved by God. You are renewed by the Spirit. You are alive in Jesus. With God’s forgiveness of your sin an unshakeable reality, you can live with resurrection strength, perspective, and hope.

Lord, I’m grateful for the death and resurrection of baptism. Help me to truly live a brand-new life of freedom and joy, amen.