Colossians 3--Living as Those Made Alive in Christ
During this COVID-19 global pandemic, many of us are restricted to our homes, perhaps working, but likely feeling less and less defined by what we do. If we can’t find our identity in the things we used to or the recognition we receive from others, where can we find it?
Colossians Chapter 3 calls us “God’s chosen people.” We have been selected by the Lord of the universe. Paul goes on to say that we are “holy and dearly loved” by that same God—Father, Son, and Spirit. Recall that Jesus said our connection to Him is what matters most (see Apart From Me). Our Maker and Creator defines who we are.
Paul then says, because of our relationship with Christ, we are to focus on the things, the character traits, that will matter for all eternity. As we do this, God will increase our desire to “put to death” behaviors that are unhealthy, counterproductive, not eternal. Included on this list are greed, putting other things in the place reserved for God (idolatry), lying, anger, rage, hatred, disparaging comments about others, and filthy language. The description is of us getting undressed—taking off these toxic habits—and being re-dressed with a new self that reflects Jesus.
Being “Christ-clothed” looks like being people of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forbearance, and especially forgiveness—just as God has forgiven us—completely. And love. Love is most critical. It overarches and underpins all the rest.
As we allow God to do this transformation in us, we can live as people of peace (“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts”) and as those who encourage and teach and exhort one another through Scripture, songs, worship, and gratitude—doing all in Jesus’ Name.
(See Colossians 3:1-17.)
· How can you, today, embrace your identity in Christ—as chosen, holy, and dearly loved by God?
· How does rooting yourself in Christ’s love help you cope with the changes in how the rest of the world tries to define you in this season?
· Picture yourself being inseparably connected to Jesus. Now, picture yourself being clothed in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forbearance, forgiveness, and love.
· Is there one way that you can express these things, today, to one other person who needs to receive it?
Shirley Giles Davis, author of the God. Gifts. You. Your Unique Calling and Design workbook, Your Unique Design Class Guide, Your Unique Design Facilitator Guide, and Gifts-Calling-Purpose blog, is a consultant, coach, facilitator who has worked with faith-based organizations, nonprofit agencies, and leaders in a diversity of fields for over 30 years. She has also been EquipConnectServe Director at her 1,200 member church since 1999.
Photo © Shirley Giles Davis, all rights reserved.