"Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things ... Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other ... clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity." Colossians 3:2-14 (NIV)
The Apostle Paul wrote this letter to the Christians in Colosse while he was in prison in Rome to warn them about heresy that threatened the Church, and to encourage them to exhibit good Christian conduct in their lives. They were to think heavenly thoughts, put aside their earthly nature, and act Christ-like.
We also must put off our sinful nature and put on "Christ-likeness". We must pray for God's help and work at being less sinful each day. Doing good is not hard, the hard part is avoiding sin. That requires our constant conscious effort and commitment. We know the difference between right and wrong, we just need to choose to do and say the right thing more often.
No comments:
Post a Comment