Former Blackout Artist

“If you are renewed by grace, and were to meet your old self, I am sure you would be very anxious to get out of his company.” – Charles H. Spurgeon

Spurgeon’s words remind us just how much God’s grace transforms our lives. If we were to meet our old selves – the person we were before Christ renewed us – we would likely be uncomfortable, perhaps even disturbed by who we see. That old version of us was led by selfish desires, worldly thinking, and sinful living. But by God’s mercy and grace, we are no longer that person!

Through Christ we have been given a new heart and a new spirit. We aren’t just improved versions of our old selves – we are entirely new creations
(2 Corinthians 5:17). The habits, mindsets, and desires that once defined us no longer have control over us. When we look back, it should not be with longing but with gratitude that God rescued us from who we used to be.

“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 (NIV)

If you ever find yourself tempted to revisit the past or entertain old patterns, remember this: that person is not who you are anymore. You have been renewed by grace. Walk in the identity God has given you, and except for telling others about who you once were and what Jesus has done in your life – don’t look back!