“And whatever you do, whether in word or
deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father
through him.” Colossians 3:17
Each day that we live is a new
opportunity to do something worthwhile for the kingdom of God. We can live for ourselves, thus placing our
own importance above all others or we can surrender our will to Almighty God
and in so doing enrich our lives. That
is where the blessings come from, by following God’s lead. Do you realize that God will bless whatever you
say or do in His name? Our lives should
be ones of gratitude for the second chance we have been given through Christ’s
death.
Peter takes the time in this chapter
to state clearly what behavioral characteristics we are to put to death and
what ones we are to embrace. That leads
us to verse 17 shown above. If we strive
to imitate Christ in our daily lives we will grow in the grace and knowledge of
the Lord. When we do that we will begin
to have a greater and deeper understanding regarding how God’s economy
works. His love and graciousness towards
His creation become clearer when we read in scripture what He has done for man
down through the ages.
We deserve nothing but punishment
for the lives we have lived up to our salvation. If you happen to think you weren’t such a bad
person prior to your conversion, think again.
Scripture clearly tells us in Romans 3:23 that all have sinned and fall
short of God’s glory. If it weren’t true
then Christ would never have had to die.
His death was the supreme sacrifice that provided a cleansing for all
sin. A clean slate was provided for all
men. Would they accept it? Most have not. Those who have followed what scripture
mandates will thank God for what He has done and will do in their lives each day
as they serve Him. Until next time, walk
with the King and be a blessing!
NOTE from
the Asbury Bible Commentary re: the reason the letter was written: A strange teaching was being (promoted) at
Colossae. No exposition of this heresy exists; its features must be inferred
from what Paul says in argument against it.
A heretical form of human philosophy seemed to promise its adherents
protection from evil powers through ascetic legalism (leading a life of
self-discipline and self-denial, especially for spiritual improvement). The
apostle's antidote to these claims is a strong doctrine of Christ's
sovereignty.
