When Paul addressed the Colossians in chapter 3 verse 10, he challenged the Colossian believers to put to death old life and put on the new. Paul is urging them to essentially make a clean break from the past and move resolutely forward with Christ. This is not a one time act. Throughout the believers life, the sins in these verses will be put to death through the work of the Spirit until the day when Christ makes all things finally and forever new.

All earthly distinctions begin to fade when a person is joined with Christ. Believers increasingly take on the image of God, rather than the likeness of the people of earth. (Romans 8:29; 12:2; 2 Corinthians 4:16) 

Colossians 3:10 is a profound verse, highlighting the concept of renewal as a continuous process in a believer's spiritual journey. Here's the verse for context:

"and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator."

In this passage, renewal represents the transformative process of becoming more like Christ. It's about shedding old habits, thoughts, and behaviors, and continuously growing in understanding and knowledge of God. The "new self" symbolizes a fresh start, a new identity rooted in faith, which is in a constant state of being renewed.

It's a reminder that spiritual growth isn't a one-time event but an ongoing journey. As believers gain more knowledge about God, they are gradually transformed to reflect His character and image more accurately.

This verse underscores the dynamic nature of faith and personal growth, encouraging believers to strive for continuous improvement and deeper connection with their Creator.

So, how do we shed old habits and become new people?

Shedding old habits and embracing a new way of life can be a challenging but deeply rewarding journey. Here are some steps that might help us in this transformation:

1. Self-Reflection: Start by identifying the habits or behaviors that you want to change. Understanding why these habits developed and how they affect you can be a powerful motivator for change.
2. Set Clear Goals: Define what the "new you" looks like. Having a clear vision of the person you want to become can guide your actions and decisions.
3. Educate Yourself: As Colossians 3:10 suggests, growing in knowledge is crucial. Read, learn, and seek wisdom from various sources, including spiritual texts, mentors, and communities.
4. Create a Plan: Break down your goals into actionable steps. Small, consistent changes are more sustainable than drastic shifts.
5. Surround Yourself with Support: Engage with a supportive community or network of friends and family who encourage your growth and hold you accountable.
6. Practice New Behaviors: Consistently practice the behaviors you want to adopt. Repetition can help solidify new habits and make them part of your routine.
7. Reflect and Adjust: Regularly review your progress and make adjustments as needed. Reflect on what’s working and what isn’t and be willing to adapt your approach.
8. Seek Divine Guidance: For many, prayer, meditation, or other spiritual practices such as fasting can provide strength and guidance throughout the process.

Remember, transformation is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and be patient with yourself. The path to becoming a new person in Christ is paved with continuous effort and self-compassion.

And how do we shed old thoughts?

Shedding old thoughts can be a transformative process. Here are some ways to help release those patterns and make way for new, healthier ones:

1. Awareness and Mindfulness: Begin by recognizing the thoughts you want to change. Pay attention to when and why these thoughts occur. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, can help you become more aware of your mental patterns.
2. Challenge Negative Thoughts: When you notice negative or unhelpful thoughts, question their validity. Are they based on facts, or are they assumptions and fears? Counter them with positive, realistic statements.
3. Positive Affirmations: Replace old thoughts with positive affirmations. Repeating affirmations can help rewire your brain over time. For example, instead of "I'm not good enough," try "I am capable and worthy."
4. Journaling: Writing down your thoughts can provide clarity and perspective. It can also help you track progress and recognize patterns that need changing.
5. Visualization: Imagine yourself letting go of the old thoughts and embracing new, positive ones. Visualization can be a powerful tool for mental transformation.
6. Seek Support: Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist about your thoughts. They can offer support, insights, and strategies to help you move forward.
7. Engage in New Activities: Sometimes, engaging in new activities or hobbies can help shift your mindset. It introduces fresh experiences and perspectives.
8. Practice Gratitude: Focusing on what you're grateful for can shift your mindset from negative to positive. Try to write down a few things you're grateful for each day.
9. Limit Negative Influences: Reduce exposure to negative influences, whether it's social media, toxic relationships, or stressful environments. Surround yourself with positivity and encouragement.
10. Be Patient and Compassionate: Changing thought patterns takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and practice self-compassion. Celebrate small victories along the way.

Remember, it's a journey, and it's okay to seek help if you need it. Each step forward, no matter how small, is progress. Check in with your Elder and pray together.