We are a divided people aren’t we? If we turn on the television or log onto social media, and it doesn’t take long to see the clamoring of differing opinions. And what we see on TV or read online is not so different from what is happening in our own smaller communities. And yet, the people of God, His chosen ones, are called to be different.
Let’s look at Colossians 3:12 today:
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”
I’m not sure about you, but I read over this list of characteristics and some of the words stung more than others. I’m not quite sure if any of my family or friends would ever describe me as a patient woman. And yet, God’s Word is abundantly clear about what He is calling us to. So, if you (like me!) read over this list and felt the twinge of conviction, take heart! Because, praise God, we don’t have to do this in our own strength.
Notice what came before this list of characteristics? Read the beginning of the verse once more.
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”
Do you see it? We are a chosen people, holy and dearly loved.
Sisters, this changes everything! For those of us who wrestle with being compassionate and patient, our answer isn’t to simply work harder at it or to merely be better. It’s to look to Jesus!
Look at how He has made us a chosen people, set apart for good works (Ephesians 2:10)! Relish in the truth that, because of Christ’s work on the cross, we are holy and dearly loved. And because there is nothing we could ever say or do that would make God love us more or less, we are a changed people. And as we courageously live out our calling as holy and beloved, we become a more compassionate, kind, humble, gentle, and patient people.
The work of Christ changes us. It changes our natural tendencies, and by studying the beatitudes and diving into the Word of God, we are allowing it to transform our hearts into something we can’t change on our own!
Hebrews 4:12 tells us:
“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
And Romans 12:2 says:
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
That is what we’re doing here at Love God Greatly. We are coming together around the Word of God because we believe it has the power to change our hearts and minds. So if this passage stings, or you find yourself not quite measuring up, take heart, dear one! You are holy and deeply loved, and God is calling you to become more like Him each and every day.
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God certainly put Friday’s message of treating others in such a way that they see God in you through your actions and love of God, making them want to know and love our Savior.
I so needed this lesson and these lessons the last 5 days as I am struggling with earthly infirmities beyond what I am able to do on my own. Turning to God is the only answer; and it shows in my actions… these beatitudes and teachings this week have been my salvation. I want to share God’s Love- please Holy Spirit help me in this.
Why are christians around the world are playing deaf and mute to the suffering of black people around the world