September 18, 2004, the day I got married, is the day that my identity completely changed. Sure, I still have the same name and the same DNA, but I am no longer the same. Where I was once single, I am now a husband. It’s a new identity.

As a husband there is now an expectation for me to live differently than when I was single. A new identity (being a husband) now requires new activity (living like a husband).

Revival is more than a feeling; it’s a reminder of your identity in Christ.

What significant event in your life do you feel changed you? How did it begin to make you live differently?

That is what it means to follow Jesus as a born-again child of the most high God. In the moment that you were bought by the blood of Jesus and the Holy Spirit came to live inside of you, your identity changed. Yes, you still have the same name and the same DNA, but something radically changed for you that day!

READ COLOSSIANS 3:1-4.

This is exactly what Paul was talking about in Colossians 3:1-4. In verse 1, you see the work of the gospel changing who you are. The old you (a sinner separated from God) has died, and now a new you has “been raised with Christ” (Col. 3:1).

When the power of God changes your identity, it will also begin to change your activity.

Are there any actions or habits you continue to commit that no longer fit your identity in Christ? Make a list.

Take those to the Lord right now in prayer, confessing and surrendering them over to Him. The gospel has already given you the power of victory, so by faith, it is time to trust that power by living differently.

Prayer Movements

HANDS UP

A sign of surrender.

• Read 1 Timothy 1:17.

Spend time giving glory to God. Think about all the ways He is wonderful and awesome and tell Him. Surrender anything inside of you that wants to keep the glory for yourself and give it to Him.

HANDS OPEN

A sign of emptying out.

• Read Matthew 16:25.

What do you need to lose today? What needs to go so that you can find your identity only in Him? Empty out by confessing anything you are holding on to, or any notion that you can save yourself in your own power.

HANDS OUT

A sign of receiving.

• Read Philippians 2:1.

Lastly, ask God to help you receive the blessing and calling of having the same attitude as Jesus and placing others before yourself.