Jeffrey Johnson Supporter

How can we "put off the old self" in daily life?

Paul here uses a Greek verb that means "to rid oneself of something" or "to lay aside something," such as old clothes. Paul thus introduces a metaphor that recurs in verses 9, 10, 12, and 14: removing undesirable clothing and putting on appropriate clothing. Paul wants the Colossian Christians to view the five items he lists next as dirty, repulsive garments that a Christian should be eager to shed.

Putting off the old self is a daily, deliberate choice. Colossians 3:9 says, "Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old self with its practices." This shows that the old self is not just a past identity but a pattern of behaviour we must refuse each day. Here is a simple, non‑repetitive explanation of how to live this out, supported by Scripture.

Identify old habits and reject them.

Paul lists the behaviours of the old self in Colossians 3:5–8 — anger, malice, impurity, greed, and harmful speech. Each day, notice when these attitudes appear and consciously refuse them. Romans 6:6 reminds us that "our old self died with Him," meaning those habits no longer define us.

Replace old reactions with new ones.

Ephesians 4:22–24 teaches that putting off the old self must be paired with "putting on the new self." When impatience rises, choose gentleness; when resentment appears, choose forgiveness. This exchange is practical and intentional.

Let Scripture reshape your thinking.

Colossians 3:16 urges believers to "let the word of Christ dwell in you richly." Reading and reflecting on Scripture daily renews your mind so your responses begin to match Christ's character rather than old patterns.

Practice truthfulness and integrity.

Paul highlights lying in Colossians 3:9 because deceit belongs to the old self. Truth builds trust and reflects Christ, who is "the truth" (John 14:6). Speaking honestly is one of the clearest ways to show you have left the old life behind.

Walk by the Spirit

Galatians 5:16 says, "Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." The Spirit empowers new behaviour. Pray for strength each morning, asking God to guide your thoughts and reactions.

Remember your new identity.

2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation." Reminding yourself of this truth helps you act from who you are now, not who you used to be.

Choose actions that reflect Christ.

Colossians 3:12–14 describes compassion, humility, patience, and love as the clothing of the new self. Practise these intentionally — in conversations, decisions, and conflicts.

Putting off the old self is not a single moment but a steady rhythm: recognise the old, refuse it, and replace it with what reflects Christ. Each small choice becomes part of a transformed life.

Summarising the whole subject

Putting off the old self means refusing the attitudes and behaviours that once shaped your life and choosing actions that reflect your new identity in Christ. Colossians 3:9 shows this involves turning away from habits that distort truth and harm relationships. Scripture guides this change by reshaping how you think and respond. As you recognise old patterns, you deliberately replace them with qualities God calls you to develop — honesty, patience, compassion, and humility. Daily choices, strengthened by the Spirit, allow your character to grow in a direction that matches the new life God has given you.

September 02 2026 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report