An Outward Sign of an Inward Change

A devotional for Tuesday

Romans 6:3-4
Or have you forgotten that when we were joined with Christ Jesus in baptism, we joined him in his death? For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives.

Baptism is a beautiful moment, but it's about much more than water. It tells the story of what Jesus has already begun within us. The old life is being left behind, and a new life in Christ has begun. Baptism gives believers an opportunity to publicly say, "I belong to Jesus." But the declaration doesn't end when we dry off. Following Jesus becomes a daily posture of surrender. Our relationships begin to change. Our priorities begin to change. The way we respond to people begins to change. We aren't instantly perfect, but the Holy Spirit continually forms us into people who look more like Christ. Baptism is an outward symbol of an inward change, and that inward change keeps working its way outward for the rest of our lives.

Question/Challenge:
If you belong to Jesus, where can others see evidence of the change He is making within you?