A Brand New You! 2

“But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ… Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble.” 2 Peter 1:5–10

Now that you have experienced the incredible gift of salvation, your journey is just beginning. As A Brand New You explains, your heart has been made new and freed from sin’s hold. But what does this new life look like in practice? How do you live daily in the freedom Christ has won for you?

The key is to understand that God’s grace is not only the starting point of your faith but also the ongoing power behind your growth. The same grace that saved you is now at work within you, training you to live a life that honours God and reflects Jesus.

Titus 2:11–12 reminds us that “the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all people, teaching us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, and to live soberly, righteously and godly in the present age.” This grace is like a patient teacher, gently leading you away from the desires that once enslaved you and towards a life marked by self-control, justice, and devotion to God.

This training involves real change—disciplines and decisions made each day. You are not left alone to figure out how to live right. The Holy Spirit, empowered by God’s grace, works in your heart to help you say “no” to sin and “yes” to God’s ways. As you spend time in the Bible and prayer, you will notice growth: temptations will lose their power, and you will become more joyful, peaceful, and loving.

Jesus’ words in John 13:17 urge us on: “If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.” Knowing God’s truth is essential, but it is only the beginning. The real blessing and joy come as you put His Word into action. Being a Christian means being a doer of the Word, not merely a hearer.

To grow in grace, it is vital to stay rooted in the scripture. Regular reading and meditation on God’s Word is the foundation because it is through Scripture that grace speaks to us, reveals God’s will, and provides wisdom. Prayer is equally important, keeping your relationship with God alive and vibrant. It invites His grace to empower you in moments of weakness and guides you in making godly choices.

Walking with other believers also matters deeply. Being part of a community provides encouragement, accountability, and support. Sharing your struggles and victories allows grace to work through others as well. Holiness is often built in everyday decisions—choosing kindness over anger, honesty over convenience, and purity over temptation. Each act of obedience strengthens your spiritual muscles.

When temptation comes or discouragement threatens, remember your identity in Christ. You are a new creation, loved and empowered by God’s grace. Your past does not define you; Christ does. Grace is the power that saved you and the power that transforms you. It’s not a one-time gift but a daily reality shaping your heart and actions. As you continue on this journey, embrace the grace that teaches and trains you. Live not only with knowledge of God’s truth but with obedience and joy, reflecting Christ in all you do.

You are a new creation—now, live like one.

Kay Alli