“We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life." Romans 6:4 (NIV)
Every year, Easter comes and goes in a few weeks. The beloved Easter Bunny has visited, the outrageous price for chocolate eggs has been reduced to 90%, and life quickly returns to "normal". Within days, the day is forgotten, just like all other holiday celebrations. But what if Easter—what if the transformation of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection—was meant to challenge us to something greater? Eternal? Lasting? What if living the resurrection life wasn't a temporary moment forgotten with the holidays, but a daily calling for us all?
So what does it mean to live in this resurrection life? And what does this look like practically?
Living the resurrection life means allowing Jesus' sacrifice to transform how we live daily. It's not just believing that Jesus lived, died, and was resurrected from the dead; it's allowing those truths to transform and change everything (because they do). From the inside out, we must believe that we're new creations created in the image of Christ Jesus. The old is dead, and the new has come, but the way we live should reflect this.
2 Corinthians 5:14-17 says it this way: "For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" (NIV).
Those who live in the resurrection life have hope even when times are tough. This doesn't mean they ignore their problems here on earth or act like things are rainbows and sunshine when they aren't. No, this lifestyle looks like humbly acknowledging your struggles before the Lord while simultaneously resting in the peace of His presence and promised eternity. Because of Jesus, sin and death no longer have the final say—He does.
Living in the power of this resurrection life also means stepping into and obeying His purpose for your life. Just as Jesus gave His life for us, we're called to give our lives as living sacrifices back to Him. Jesus surrendered His will to God to save us. We surrender our will to God as an act of obedience—a commitment to His calling.
Ultimately, living in the power of Jesus' resurrection means living like we've been changed (because we have been). We were all once dead to sin, but now we are alive. Every decision we make, every step we take, every word we speak, should have Jesus in mind. Why? Because we've been given a new identity. We're children of God. We're not defined by our past, but propelled by our future–a unique and beautiful future He has written just for us.
Instead of allowing the season of Easter to pass you by, take some time to answer these short reflection questions:
1. What does “new life” look like in your daily routine?
2. In what areas of your life do you need to experience resurrection—a renewal, a second chance?
3. How does the resurrection of Jesus give you hope in tough situations?
What's one way you can live with the resurrection in mind? Perhaps you need to forgive a friend or extend kindness to someone in need. What about turning from sin and shame and walking in freedom? Could it be surrendering something you've been holding onto, or boldly stepping into Christ's calling for your life? Whatever it might be, be encouraged. Not only does Jesus go before and behind us, but He's within us. Paving the way, and transforming our lives from the inside out.
Let's pray:
Dear Jesus, now that Easter has come and gone, help me to walk in your resurrection power. I don't want to forget what you've done for me and the way you've transformed my life. Help me to share your love with others, and to live with hope and boldness, no matter what comes my way. Give me a renewed sense of purpose, and bring new life to the areas of my life that feel stuck or dead. Your Name brings power and transformation, Lord, so have your way in me. We thank, praise, and love you, Lord. You are good to us! Amen.
Agape, Amber
Photo Credit: GettyImages/Boonyachoat
Related Resource: Anxiety: Practical Steps for Healing in Christ
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Originally published Tuesday, 22 April 2025.
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