(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
Colossians 3:5 So put to death [what’s] lurking within you.
Colossians 3:5-11 focuses on the need to “put to death” certain sins. Paul specifically mentions a number of sexual sins as well as sins of speech. Many may read through this passage and conclude that the heart of the passage is about behavior modification. God has a heart that we ought to live a certain way (which is 100% true) and it’s up to us to change our behaviors in order to live that way (not quite 100% true).
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is not about behavior modification. It’s about God’s desire to reconcile His people back to Himself. It’s about God restoring our fractured lives to make us whole in Him. As such, the heart of the Gospel focuses more on who you are than it focuses on how you live. This doesn’t mean you’re free to live and sin however you’d like (Rom. 6:15). Instead, it means that understanding who you are will shape how you live.
You are a saint. You are a child of God. You are a friend of God. You are part of the new family of Jesus. You are secure in Him. And so much more. Holding firmly to these truths will lead to the death of your earthly nature.
READING & PRAYERS:
COLOSSIANS 3:5-11 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: Do you spend more energy being concerned with how you live (your behaviors) or who you are in the eyes of God? What changes might you need to make to more regularly and consistently see yourself as God sees you?
DIGGING DEEPER: Throughout the week, search out at least 5 Scripture verses which focus on who you are in the eyes of God. (Example: John 1:12 says those who follow Christ are a child of God.) In the weeks to come, continue to add to the list of Scripture verses you discover. Read these daily.
Take a Step: Practice listening to God by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice a day.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I confess there are many times when I don’t see myself as a “saint” but instead as a “sinner.” While I know I have sinned against You and others, I’m grateful for the reminder that You see me as a saint. A friend of God. A child of God. May the truths of who I am permeate my spirit deeply, and may I grow in seeing myself as You see me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence.)
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