(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
Colossians 3:12 …clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
In the verse noted above, Paul mentions five specific attitudes and/or attributes to “put on” or to “clothe yourselves with.” In the original Greek Language, many of these words have a richer, deeper meaning than what can quickly be translated into English. Let’s have a look at the first two.
First, the word compassion is translated in other English Bibles as tenderhearted mercy, heart of mercy, or, heartfelt compassion. While some translators were sure to include the word “heart” it still misses out on how the Colossians likely understood the term. In this verse,because compassion is something to “put on” or “clothe yourselves with,” the fuller meaning behind it is this: to increase your capacity for compassion. It isn’t just about being compassionate, but to increase your capacity to be compassionate.
Second, the word kindness isn’t simply about being nice to one another. Instead, kindness is to be useful and profitable to others. Useful in building them up, and profitable, in helping them realize their worth and value to God and others.
READING & PRAYERS:
COLOSSIANS 3:12-15, ISAIAH 63:7, 2 CORINTHIANS 1:3-4, PHILIPPIANS 2:1-3 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: Of these two— compassion and kindness — which one would you say is currently your greatest growth area? How may God be inviting you to grow in this area? (Be specific.)
DIGGING DEEPER: Consider writing out at least three ways you may be able to increase your capacity for compassion? Similarly, write out at least three ways you can build others up today, helping them realize their worth and value to God and others? Be specific.
Take a Step: Practice listening to God by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice a day.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, as I enter into a new week, I pray that You will reveal to me the ways in which I may increase my capacity for compassion. In the same way the Good Samaritan crossed the street to help a wounded man in need, reveal to me the hurts and wounds of others – physical, emotional, spiritual – and lead me to be Your hands and feet. Amen.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence.)
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