Let the peace of Christ be in control in your heart (for you were in fact called as one body to this peace), and be thankful.
Into the Text
In Colossians 3:12–17, we are given a beautiful picture of the new life that we have in Christ. In verse 15, we see a reminder of the love and unity that should characterize our relationships with one another.
Sadly, this is not the reality for many of us. Satan has been very successful in bringing disunity to the body of Christ.
As believers, we are called to live in peace with one another and to let the love of Christ rule in our hearts. This means putting aside our differences, our prejudices, and our grudges, and choosing to love and forgive as Jesus has loved and forgiven us. This love is not just for those who are easy to love, but for everyone, including those who may be difficult to get along with. It is a love that transcends circumstances and is rooted in the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.
We all need God’s forgiveness at the foot of the cross. We are all sinners in need of a Savior.
The change needs to start with us. God has given us the peace that our world desperately needs. Now is the time to put our faith into action in our lives. God has given us just the right footwear for this spiritual battle: shoes that make us ready to proclaim the gospel of peace to a world that is opposed to God. Jesus is our peace, He has taken our sins away so that we can live at peace with God. And He enables us to live in peace with our Christian sisters and brothers, regardless of race, status, or background.
Prayer
Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for the peace that we have in You and the unity that comes from being members of one body. Help me choose to walk in love and peace in my life. Use me to help a divided world see the love of Jesus. Amen.