Colossians 3:12-15 says this, “Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful."
As I continue to challenge myself to examine my own character, today’s scripture acknowledges that I must “put on” or demonstrate behaviors that honor God.
The phrase “put on” is not a suggestion, it’s a command—a directive that requires that I gain, add, increase, acquire, and accumulate traits that honor God.
The same way I put on clothes, make-up, or shoes—like an article of clothing, eye shadow, or sandals I must adorn behaviors that are becoming of a Believer in Christ.
Put On….
Today’s scripture lists the more common character traits: kindness, humility, meekness, patience, forbearance, forgiveness, love, peace, and thankfulness.
While humility, meekness, peace, and thankfulness reflect inward demonstrations, the others guide my relationships with others. God doesn’t make space to interject conditions, excuses, or justification for my refusal to “put on” behaviors that please Him—He simply insists that I do.
My Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for Your Word. Help me to evaluate my disposition in every situation, circumstance, and interaction. Reveal blindspots that hinder my growth. Help me to cleanse my impure motives so that I can make every effort to acquire and increase in behaviors that please you.