Baptism marks our entrance into resurrection life. The water carries us from death to new identity in Christ.
Over time, flowing rivers shape rock. What looks unyielding is slowly transformed by persistent movement. The river doesn’t force its way—it wears smooth through steady presence.
Have you ever felt your heart resist change? Like a stone, firm and familiar—yet deep down, you long for something softer, freer?
Formation doesn’t always come through force. The Spirit moves in daily rhythms, gently shaping our rough places. When you keep returning to the flow, over time, you are reformed—quietly, deeply, truly.
“We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.” (Romans 6:4 ESV)
Baptism represents a complete transformation. As we are submerged in water, it symbolizes the death of our old nature. But rising from the water reflects our new life in Christ, where we are no longer bound by sin or death. This passage reminds us that baptism is the beginning of a new journey—walking in the resurrection power of Jesus.
“And when he came up out of the water, immediately he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.’” (Mark 1:10-11 ESV)
In the moment of Jesus’ baptism, the Spirit descended, affirming His identity as God’s Son. In our own baptism, we, too, are declared as God’s beloved children, stepping into a new identity and receiving the affirmation of our Heavenly Father. The Holy Spirit descends upon us, empowering us to walk in the fullness of this new life.
Spiritual Move: Fasting
Fasting is a dramatic experience, an intentional withdrawal from physical sustenance to focus on spiritual renewal. As you thirst for God’s presence, this practice mirrors the living water that quenches your deepest needs, drawing you nearer to Him for spiritual refreshment.
Journaling Prompts:
Reflect on the moment you were baptized or the decision to follow Jesus—what transformation did that bring in your life?
How can fasting help you step further into the new life Christ offers?
Thought and Discussion Questions:
How can the act of fasting deepen your connection with God and your understanding of your new identity in Christ?
How does baptism symbolize your identity in Christ, and what changes in your life did you notice after being baptized?
In what ways does fasting prepare you for the newness of life that Christ offers?
How do you relate to the image of “new life” in Romans 6? What does it look like for you to walk in that newness daily?