"New" is an exciting word when it's attached to things like cars, clothes, a house, or gadgets. We all like new things and want new things.
 
But when it comes to the weightier matters of life, "new" is a scary word. Embracing something new on this front means change. It's a break from the comfort of the status quo, or the way we've always done things. "New" ushers us into the unknown and unfamiliar, and we're not sure what to expect.
 
It's hard for us to change, to let go of all that is familiar and comfortable. We resist with all our strength and might. This is just part of our human nature.
 
That was the Israelites attitude after they gained their freedom. They wanted to go back to what was familiar. But they couldn't. Their only option was to move forward to the land God had promised them, but their fear of the unknown turned their eyes back to Egypt, back to slavery.
 
That's why the gospel can be a frightening proposition. Spiritual birth ushers us into the new. Ready or not, here it is:

• A new life (Romans 6:4)
• A new identity (John 1:12)
• A new self (Ephesians 4:24)
• A new heart (Ezekiel 36:26)
• A new covenant (Hebrews 9:15)
• A new command (John :34)
• A new way (Romans 7:6)  

You might not know what this new life in Christ will look or feel like. At first, it may feel a little awkward or strange. Like the Israelites, you may look back to your old life, especially when you feel down or blue or when you are going through a tough circumstance. At those times, Satan will do his best to make you think your old life was pretty good.
 
It is time to let go of the old, to stop looking back, and to embrace the new.