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New Testament scholars agree that the Apostle Paul wrote letters to the earliest known groups of Christians in order to combat errors in the church. There were misunderstandings on spiritual gifts, worshipping of angels, people believing they had the freedom to do anything they wanted, and more. Throughout his letters, Paul addressed each of these topics. But he shared truth with a whole lot of grace.
Take, for example, the church of Colosse. Paul was writing to combat errors in the church. How does he combat these errors? He writes that he is praying for them (1:3-14). He writes a hymn about the supremacy of Christ (1:15-20). Shortly afterward he writes, And I rejoice that you are living as you should and that your faith in Christ is strong (2:5).
Sadly, many Christians have set-aside living our lives and communicating to others with this level of grace. We emphasize what’s true while neglecting to share that truth with the high level of grace that Jesus, Paul, and others throughout the Scriptures modeled for us. Today, live your life in such a way that the grace of God is evident in your words and actions. Accept Christ’s invitation to live through you.
READING & PRAYERS:
COLOSSIANS 1:24-2:5 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: Those who do not regularly and consistently receive grace are more likely to struggle living a life expressing grace toward others. How might you pause to more fully receive the grace of God in your life today?
DIGGING DEEPER: Are there any areas of your life in which you’re living and/or speaking with more truth than grace? More grace than truth? What steps can you take to begin living with 100% grace and 100% truth?
Take a Step: Practice listening to God by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice a day.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, if I were to do a deep dive into all of my words and actions over the previous 24-48 hours, I’m confident I would recognize that the grace and truth I exhibit toward others are out of balance. Others are more likely to see or hear truth from me than grace. May I more fully receive Your grace so I can better express Your grace today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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