When I read this verse I think "What are the things above?" Then I read further. You get two lists of examples. One is a list of things of this world:
Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices (Colossians 3:1, 5, 8, 9 NIV)
You also get a list of the things of Heaven:
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 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. 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 NIV)
You can't get any clearer the most important things in life. Those who know me, know I struggle with some of the things on both lists. I am confident we all do. My faith is not some "pie in the sky" faith. Those of us who follow Christ don't think we're perfect, we profess just the opposite. We are all sinners. You can't let your sins keep you from the saving grace of Jesus. Just because you fail at some of the things of Heaven, or struggle with the things of this world, God understands and loves you anyway. You don't have to be perfect to come to him. He will help create a new person within your heart if you just turn to his love. When you do, you just naturally begin to clothe yourselves in the gifts of his spirit. You don't perfect them. It's a growing process and God loves you through everyone of your struggles along the way. Don't wait to be perfect before seeking Christ.
No comments:
Post a Comment