(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
Colossians 3:5 So put to death [what’s] lurking within you.
Do you sometimes struggle to openly acknowledge what may be lurking deep beneath the surface in your life? For example, can you think of a time when you sinned against God and others but went on to compare your sin to others as if to say, “Well yeah, I did that. But it wasn’t that bad.” Some possible examples may be:
- Yes, I took some office supplies from my work place. But it’s not like I’ve ever robbed a bank or anything.
- Yes, I’ve looked at images on the internet that I shouldn’t have. But it’s not like I’ve cheated on my spouse.
- Yes, I’ve talked about other colleagues without them in the room. But I just needed to vent.
Unfortunately, we’re not able to put to death our earthy nature when we deflect responsibility for our sins against God and others. Being part of the new family of Jesus means that we are honest with God, honest with ourselves, and honest with others. It’s to take responsibility for the wrongs we commit so that we can take steps forward in our new nature.
READING & PRAYERS:
COLOSSIANS 3:5-11, ROMANS 6:1-23 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: Consider the previous 2-3 days of your life. Can you think of at least one time when you minimized a wrong you committed?
DIGGING DEEPER: Spend some time in prayer with God. Ask Him, “What may be lurking deep beneath the surface in my life that has led me to minimize my sins against You?” Then spend some additional time journaling your thoughts and feelings about anything that may have risen to the surface during this exercise.
Take a Step: Practice listening to God by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice a day.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, yesterday I prayed that I would see myself as You see me. At the same time, I don’t want to live by completely and totally minimizing the wrongs I commit against You and others. Instead, I pray that You will open up my eyes to the reality of the sin in me, while also opening my eyes to the depth of Your love and grace. Despite my sin, You are with me and for me. Thank You! In Jesus’ name. Amen.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence.)
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