In our last post we talked about living lives that were like a new set of clothes … a set of clothes seen in the character traits listed in Colossians 3:12-14.
In verses 15-16 we see three steps towards a life that is different, that reflects Jesus.
Three steps to a new wardrobe:
- Choose the “peace of Christ.” For many of us, we seem to be unsettled all the time. Peaceful is the last word that friends or family would use to describe us. Because Jesus is Lord and promises to be with us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, what do we really have to be anxious about? We can choose to have the peace of God take rule in our hearts. Peace, rather than unsettledness. Everything else gets better after that, doesn’t it?
- Be thankful. Thanksgiving is the ultimate evidence of maturity. When I forgot all the good that God is doing for, in, and through me, when I don’t stop to realize the innumerable blessings He has given, it’s easy to be a stick in the mud. Gratefulness is the language of the Kingdom. And when we have a foundation of thankfulness, all the other characteristics of verses 12-14 flow more naturally from our attitudes, words, and actions.
- The word of Christ dwelling in us. As we know and live the gospel and a life described by the words of Jesus, those around us will see the difference. But, it starts with knowing Jesus and His word. Read, reflect, and soak in God’s word every day. It will change your life. You don’t have to become a seminary professor—the disciples were “unschooled, ordinary men.” Just take five minutes each day to read a little Scripture and consider how it applies to your life.
If we do these three things, our lives will begin to more fully reflect Jesus. People will see the change and speak of the new wardrobe that characterizes your life, and Jesus will be honored! And you will find yourself exemplifying Paul’s words in verse 17: And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
These three practices are easy to do, if we set some time aside each day to spend with God. Is there a time of day that would work for you? Try using these three steps this week. Each morning after you awake, or evening before you go to bed, run through them and read a little of one of the Gospels (try Mark or John to start).