Devotion: Colossians 3:17 says, "And everything you do or say should be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him." This verse captures the purpose of a life committed to Christ better than anything else I know—a life full of His name's presence in everything I do, speak, and think.
We who claim Jesus as our Lord are not only expected to take part in religious practices but also must ensure that we incorporate all aspects of our ordinary existence with His compassion and favor. When one appreciates working out or walking around their office block every day "…for Christ" they mean one should never see themselves as slaves of sin again! The point is that there is more of God in a menial job if it is done as an act of worship than standing beside statues, gnashing teeth, and taunting people.
One can change their perspective when they do everything in the name of Jesus. We should remember that we are indeed His representatives on earth today as we seek to establish our identity in His love and kingdom. It's true; normal activities such as eating together, giving each other a hand at work, or spending time with someone who needs help can turn out to be special times when the nature of God is unveiled before men's eyes.
Moreover, the phrase "giving thanks to God the Father" helps us remember that we are to be grateful in all circumstances. Once our minds are set on His goodness, even if things are not going right for us at that particular time, there is a deep feeling of happiness and calmness within our spirits that enables us to live honestly according to what we believe in.
Think about how you can do this in your daily life now. Let's make a commitment today that each word we utter and every move we make points at Jesus while our hearts are filled with thankfulness.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, help me live after a manner which honours thee in every thing I say or do. May my word and actions show how much Thou love us and give us the grace to do good to all men around us. Teach me how to appreciate whatever happens, be it bad or good, knowing that You did it. Amen.