Each week, I’ll share personal reflections from my own time with God, our Heavenly Father. On a Personal Note is where I’ll highlight takeaways and implications for walking with the Lord.
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Colossians 3:12-14 NIV
When we declare that we are Christians, there is an outward change in our actions. In the word of God, we have been instructed to “clothe” ourselves with compassion, humility, and patience. When Christians act conceited or vain, manipulative, or selfish, we are showing up dressed inappropriately. I remember one time in college when I showed up dressed inappropriately for an event. I arrived in basketball shorts and an old t-shirt and everyone else was dressed up. I completely missed the “dress nice” memo and it was obvious.
When we display characteristics or actions that are not in alignment with the word of God, it is obvious, to believers and non-believers. One of the main tasks we have been given is to lead others to Christ. The words we use, the way we carry ourselves, and the way we treat others should show others the light of Jesus Christ. How can we share the love of God with others when our actions are filled with pride or greed?
God has called each and every one of us to a higher standard of life. We do not move the same way the world moves. We do not value the same things that this world values. And as believers, it is evident in our actions. I challenge each person reading these words to look inward and ask, “What am I wearing?” Are you living a life that visibly displays kindness, humility, patience, or forgiveness? When something rooted in flesh(worldly) arises, release it to our Father above. He will strengthen your spirit to overcome. This is one way that we mature in our walk with Jesus.
As we study the word of God, we should walk away with practical steps for our life. My takeaway is to ensure that my actions are in alignment with God’s word and to pray for strength in overcoming my own flesh.
What about you? What’s your takeaway? How will you walk it out in your daily life?
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