(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
Colossians 3:17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.
Everything in the Bible is the Word of God. It’s all important. But every once in a while, there a verse or passage which ought to make us pause in order to more fully consider the implications. A couple of verses which qualify are Colossians 3:17 and 2 Corinthians 5:20. The first is quoted above in the NIV, but the NLT reads, And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus. Likewise, the 2 Corinthians passage reads, So we are Christ’s ambassadors…
This was Paul’s way of saying to the Colossians and Corinthians, “You’re not just followers of the Way when you gather for worship services. You’re a representative of Him in everything you do and say.”
Living this out is, of course, a challenge. Every follower of Jesus will miss the mark and fall short. Yet every day is a new opportunity. We don’t need to get lost in all the negative thoughts about how we’ve failed in being an ambassador for Christ in the past. Instead, we can focus on the here and now, and enter into this day a representative of Christ.
READING & PRAYERS:
COLOSSIANS 3:16-17, 2 CORINTHIANS 5:11-21 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: What is one way Jesus may be inviting you to be a representative of Him today?
DIGGING DEEPER: Spend 10-15 minutes in silence and prayer. Utilize this time to discern an answer to the above question.
Take a Step: Practice listening to God by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice a day.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, there are moments when I think about all of the mistakes I’ve made and I wonder, Does Jesus really want me to represent Him? Today’s reading is a reminder that you don’t just want me to represent You, but that You have called me and You trust me to do so. What an honor and a privilege! May I represent You well today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence.)
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