“I have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. That life which I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself up for me.” – Galatians 2:20
Paul speaks of being “crucified with Christ,” meaning that his old self—marked by sin, self-centered ambitions, and reliance on personal efforts—has been put to death. This signifies a complete shift in identity where the believer no longer lives according to their own will but is instead surrendered to Christ, who now directs and sustains their life. The phrase “Christ lives in me” conveys an intimate relationship with Jesus, where His presence and power shape the way one thinks, acts, and responds to life. The verse further emphasizes that this new way of living is sustained by faith in Jesus, who demonstrated His deep love through His sacrificial death on the cross. The believer’s life, therefore, is no longer about self-promotion or human effort but about trusting in the grace and power of Christ.
As Christians, we are called to live with a mindset of surrender and dependence on Jesus in daily life. It challenges us to let go of self-reliance and instead draw strength from Christ in our struggles, decisions, and actions. This means prioritizing His teachings over personal desires, showing love and humility in interactions, and seeking His guidance in every situation. By living by faith, we learn to trust in God’s provision rather than our own strength, face trials with peace, and reflect Christ’s character in our words and actions. True transformation comes not through rigid adherence to manmade religious rules but through an active relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ, where His love and grace continually renew and empower us.