Putting On the New Self

Putting On the New Self

In Colossians 3:10-14, Paul shifts the focus from what we must put off to what we must now put on: “Put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him… put on bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering… and above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.” Salvation isn’t just subtraction; it’s transformation. God doesn’t just remove your sinful tendencies, He clothes you in Christlike virtues. The “new self” is not an improved version of the old you; it’s a completely different life, rooted in Christ, reflecting His image.

This new self is shaped by the knowledge of Christ, not the patterns of the world. It is merciful when wronged, kind when overlooked, humble when praised, patient when provoked, and forgiving when offended. These are not qualities we naturally possess, they come from the Spirit working in us. Just as you dress yourself each day with intention, you must clothe your heart with compassion, grace, and love. Love, Paul says, is the binding agent, the thread that holds every other virtue in place. Without love, your good works become empty gestures. But with love, even small acts carry eternal weight.

Putting on the new self is a daily choice. You may wake up with old thoughts or emotions, but you can choose to wear the garment of Christ. When tempted to react in anger, choose meekness. When tested by people, wear patience. And when life feels unfair, trust in the One who has clothed you with righteousness. Don’t wait to “feel” like the new self, act on it. The more you wear these virtues, the more natural they become. In Christ, you are fully accepted, deeply loved, and perfectly equipped to reflect Him. Let the world see not just who you are, but who you are becoming in Him.

Word Affirmation: (Isaiah 61:10, KJV) "He hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness." (KJV) (Don't just say it, mean it!)

Personalise: I wear the nature of Christ. I am clothed with kindness, patience, and the love of God every day.

“Putting on the new self is not pretending to be someone you’re not, it’s stepping into who you already are in Christ.”

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