Living in The New Self!

Scripture:  Colossians 3:12–17, 12, Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. 15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. 17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

Devotion:  In Colossians 3:12-17, the Apostle Paul provides a beautiful description of what it means to live as people transformed by the love and grace of Jesus Christ. This passage serves as a guideline for the Christian life, reminding us that our identity as God's chosen people brings responsibility and privilege.

Paul begins by encouraging us to "clothe ourselves" with virtues that reflect Christ's character: compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Each of these qualities is essential for nurturing relationships within the body of Christ. It's a reminder that our faith is not merely a private matter, but something that is meant to be expressed through our interactions with others. Adorning ourselves with these virtues means choosing to live intentionally and reflecting Christ in our daily lives.

Forgiveness is a central theme in this passage. To "bear with each other and forgive" is not always easy, especially when faced with hurt or disagreement. However, Paul encourages us to forgive as the Lord forgave us. Reflecting on the immense grace we have received from God empowers us to extend that same grace to others. This act of forgiveness is a vital expression of love and unity in the community of believers.

Paul further stresses the importance of love, describing it as the binding force of all virtues. Love motivates every action, infusing our relationships with purpose and depth. It acts as the glue that holds us together in perfect unity, fostering an environment where peace can flourish.

The call to let the "peace of Christ rule" in our hearts is a beautiful reminder that, as followers of Jesus, we are called to embody His peace in our interactions. This peace should govern our thoughts, feelings, and actions, guiding us in moments of conflict and uncertainty. Gratitude is also emphasized; being thankful encourages us to focus on God's goodness and provision, shifting our perspective and centering our hearts on Him.

Finally, Paul encourages us to let the message of Christ dwell among us richly. This means teaching and encouraging one another through worship, song, and sharing God's Word. It's about fostering a community where believers can grow together in faith and continuously seek to honor God in all they do.

Prayer:  Gracious Father, thank You for calling me as one of Your chosen people, holy and dearly loved. Help me to clothe myself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience as I interact with others. Grant me the strength to forgive as You have forgiven me, and help love to be the foundation of all my relationships. May the peace of Christ rule in my heart, guiding my actions and thoughts. Let Your message dwell among us richly, and may everything I do be done in the name of the Lord Jesus. I give You thanks for Your goodness and grace. Amen.

Reflection:  Take a moment to reflect on how you can apply this passage in your life. Are there specific virtues you need to embrace more fully? Consider relationships in which you may need to extend forgiveness. Reflect on the role of gratitude in your daily life. How can you cultivate an attitude of thankfulness and let the peace of Christ govern your interactions? Think of ways you can encourage and uplift others, perhaps by sharing a verse, a hymn, or a kind word this week. What steps can you take to live out your faith in practical ways in your community?