This is important because it helps us see that as we mature in our walk we live more like Christ since our walk is for others to see. We can’t live two different lives trying to please God, just like we can’t serve two masters. As we seek wisdom and we mature our lives should shine and we should be living like Christ. As I grow my life gets more exciting because of what Jesus has done for me and the things I like to do also begin to change ( not all of them because God created me to be me, but I am being refined or purified so people see Christ in me.)
It says in Romans chapter 13 verse 12, “The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armor of right living.” We shouldn’t want to hold on to our old selves at all we should dive in head first and immerse ourselves with Christ and be all in. The joy and peace that we are promised from Jesus comes when we are opened to learning and changing our ways and thoughts. Paul says something to the Romans that always makes me think. In chapter 14 verses 7-8 he says, “For we don’t live for ourselves or die for ourselves. If we live, it’s to honor the Lord. And if we die, it’s to honor the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”
The phrase ‘put on new clothes’ is so important because it is us changing or transforming our old ways and living new; and Christ has conquered this world so we can live through Him. It’s not easy but it is worth it and God sent us the Holy Spirit to guide us and comfort us so we can tell when we should do something. We have many examples and a Father that loves us, we should be working hard to learn and show and grow so people see Christ in us. Amen