A WORDly Focus

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. 15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 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 3:12-17 NIrV

How is it possible to live a REAL CHRISTian life in such a terrible, tempting, and trying world? Here in Paul's letter to the Colossians we have some practical suggestions. The first suggestion is all about others . . . as God has loved us so we must love others. Sounds simple, right? Care for one another. Show them kindness when they are in need. Be gentle with those who are hurting. Show patience and compassion with others as they are going through challenges. We never know how much someone is hurting unless we ask! Care a bit more about others than we do ourselves . . . stop being so selfish!!!! Secondly Paul reminds us to be ready to carry the load for someone. After all, if Christ can bear all of our sins, we can at least put up with an impatient co-worker, dry a little one's tears, or encourage someone who is down. A kind word, a cup of coffee, a simple high five might make someone's day! Then we can forgive . . . just as God forgives us! Oh, we love to be forgiven. The slate is wiped clean and we can start fresh . . . except when it comes to others hurting us! Let it go . . . LET IT GO!

Finally, LOVE others! Love as God loves us . . . just because! In a WORLD full of hate, deception, and evil desires, we must be focused upon God's WORD. God is LOVE. Love is the definition of a believer. Let it define you!