Paul

December 16

Colossians 3:11-17

Let peace and love rule

Paul wrote that Christ is all and is in all. Nothing makes one person more special than another, because Jesus lives in each one of us.

He then writes, “Since God has chosen you to live a holy life, and because He loves you so much, you should be tenderhearted, kind, humble, and gentle. Be patient and understanding with each other; forgiving those who have hurt and upset you. Forgive as the Lord forgives you.

Let your love be the kind that everyone can see, for love will help you do all these things with the right attitude.

You were chosen to be part of the body of believers; so let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts. And remember to be thankful.

Let the words of Christ be alive and meaningful in your life, as you talk to each other about His truths and sing songs of praise and gratitude to God. So, whatever you do and say, let it bring glory to God.”

How can I keep wrong feelings from my heart?

Because we are imperfect and we live in an imperfect world, others hurt us, and we hurt them. When anger, jealousy, and guilt fill our hearts, we often take it out on others through our sulky and irritable moods.

There is a way to guard against letting those kinds of emotions rule your heart: by wearing the love of Jesus like a coat around you. Read Colossians 3:14 again. Love will help you stay in control of your emotions. When you love others, you can conquer irritability by being patient, pride by putting others first, and bitterness by choosing to forgive. When love fills your heart, there is no room for those bad feelings that can lead to sin.

Verse for today

… Pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 2 Timothy 2:22