Empowered Change

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. Colossians 3:16 (New King James Version)

God’s Word uses words that are multi-layered with meaning and richness. If we do not go beyond our limited scope of a word we will miss some big truths. The word ‘dwell’ is one such example. Upon first glance, I can think of it as merely being ‘in’ me, but a word study showed me a broader picture. It also means to influence and influence is a word that is rich with meaning. When someone or something influences me it changes me. When God’s word influences me it not only changes me but empowers me for that change. That is what I am hungry for this morning…..empowered change.

I just finished reading through the first three chapters of Ephesians. I was struck by all I am and all I have in Christ….all spiritual blessings, chosen before the foundations of the world, adopted by Him, accepted in the beloved, redeemed, forgiven, wisdom, prudence, an inheritance, sealed by His Spirit, raised and seated with Christ, saved by faith, God’s workmanship, access to the Father, a fellow-citizen, a habitation of God, a partaker of His promises, and confidence in Him. I read the list. I wrote it out in a notebook. I reworded it for personal effect. Then I asked myself a heart searching question.

If I am and have all that in Christ why am I living so far removed from its truth? I am rich in Christ and yet live as a pauper. If I found out I had $100,000 in the my bank account, I would live like I had $100,000.00. I wouldn’t be like the person I read about the other day who lived in a shack, dressed poorly, and collected empty cans for money while living with bundles of money in his home. Yet, on a spiritual plane I am doing the same thing if I am not living out of the truth of who I am and what I have in Christ. It is a truth that must not simply dwell in me but it must influence me as well. At the same time, I realize the changes I want will not come about naturally or in my own strength. On my own, I will continue to cycle in and out of victory and defeat. In Christ, I have hope, power, and change.

Father, change the patterns of thought and behavior in me. You are my starting point and resting place. Amen.

I Am His Daughter
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PKh3wF7DBPk&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

A Different Wardrobe

Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; Colossians 3:12 (New King James Version)

Putting on and extending to others tender mercy, kindness, humility, meekness, and longsuffering does not come naturally to us. Of late, I am acutely aware of how quickly I can put on just the opposite. The slightest thing can find me clothing myself in resentment, impatience, intolerance, suspicion and agitation. But I am noticing something that I have never noticed before. It takes more energy and robs me of joy when I put on what comes naturally as opposed to what God instructs me to put on.

It takes a lot of energy to hold a grudge. I have to keep reminding myself of the offense and the offender. It affects my relationships and keeps me in a perpetual state of turmoil. Yesterday, I took some steps to change the direction of my attitude and actions and I was struck by the lightness that came to me because of it. It actually felt good to clear away the mental list I had been holding on to. It felt good to talk to the ones I had been avoiding. It felt good to feel comfortable in their presence.

This morning, I admit to a bit of confusion. For the life of me, I cannot figure out why being resentful and vengeful were ever so appealing to me. I cannot think of one advantage that it gave or one benefit anyone (myself included) derived from it. Fitful nights of sleep and uncomfortable social settings certainly aren’t things to be desired. When I am alone and nursing a perpetual wound, who is even aware of it but God and me? My conclusion is that it is all a painful waste of time.

Life is too short to spend my energies and time on that which displeases God, disrespects others, and keeps me bound in apparel not meant for me. God is slowly showing me practical ways to begin living differently. He is showing me the necessity to release offenses to Him the moment I am aware of the sting. He is giving me right actions to take. He is even showing me a “wardrobe” that will be much more pleasing and appealing to wear. Indeed, as His elected, holy, and beloved daughter I am called to look and act like it. I am empowered by His Spirit to look and act like it.

A friend of mine likes to reference the show NCIS whereby a certain character is continually smacking individuals upside the head to get their attention. For me, the letters will stand for New Choices I See and they are coming as God tenderly “smacks” me with necessary truths.

Father, I love the fact that You never leave me to my own vices, choices, and ways. I stand in awe of You as You work in me. Amen.

Your Name - Phillips, Craig, & Dean
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2qm3eD4akM

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Live Like THIS!

As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him; rooted and built up in him, and established in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Colossians 2:6,7 (King James Version)

If ever there was a key passage for living a victorious Christian life, it has to be this. What a challenge! What an invitation! Each phrase is a power house of truth that I want to embrace and experience.

Walking in him is what I do when I follow His lead and example. When I live with His heart, attitude, and mind. It goes beyond just walking with Him. It is the heart of being in relationship with Him. Seeking His face, implementing His truths, keeping in step with Him, imitating Him, desiring what characterized His life to now characterize mine, living under His direction, practicing His presence, and living my life in and by His strength and Spirit. Walking in Him also implies forward movement and progression. It is a daily journey!

Rooted and built up in Him is a picture of stability and attachment. My daily connection with Christ is where my growth is going to come from. He must be my life source. To be firmly set, fixed, and grounded in Him. It has the idea of taking up residence whereby He becomes my habitat. To live my life attached to Him, relying upon Him, receiving from Him, and fully depending upon Him.

Established in the faith is found in my connection to His word. My core beliefs and doctrines. This is not possible if I rarely open His word and read it for myself let alone actually study it. Mark 6 talks about four things that can happen to God’s Word when it is introduced to a person as seeds. Satan can steal it, it can fail to take root, it can be choked, or it can bear fruit. It hinges upon the receptiveness of my heart. In order to be established in the faith, God’s Word must be established in me!

And finally, abounding in thanksgiving. Am I walking in awareness and appreciation of God’s goodness, faithfulness, love, tenderness, and companionship? There is so much to praise and thank Him for on a daily basis. I want it to ooze from me! To be in a mode of continual spilling over. To have the heart of David who could never seem to vent about his difficulties without it turning into a concert of adoration and admiration of God.

Father, empower me to be a living example of these truths. Amen.

Draw Me Close to You
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FB1yDv9_N1k&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

What to do With the Toxic Thoughts

Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. Colossians 3:2 (New American Standard Bible)

My mother would often say, “You can only think of one thing at a time.” She was right! God’s Word is filled with verses that speak of the importance of meditating on the right things. Today’s verse is one such example. It not only has the idea of focus but also of coming into agreement with. Since a multitude of thoughts play out in my mind daily, it is imperative that I keep them aligned with God and His eternal perspective. There is more to life than merely those things I can experience with my five senses. In the midst of anything I see, feel, or experience, there is a heavenly realm that must be taken into consideration. I must learn to see the whole picture instead of just my limited point of view.

Last night afforded me an opportunity to practice setting my mind on things above. It came in the form of disappointment that someone was given the opportunity to do something I am longing to do but am not able to do at present. I found myself battling thoughts of jealousy as well as feelings of being over looked AGAIN! Fear abounded that God might never open the door for me to serve in THAT capacity. They were self-consuming, self- centered, self-condemning thoughts and they were toxic for all of 10 minutes. That is when I made a conscious decision to review truth and allow it to set me free.

What was the truth I reviewed? God is in control of my life. He has plans for me that He will fulfill. I can trust Him to use me in the ways He chooses at the times He chooses and for the purposes He chooses. He knows what He is doing in each ministry opportunity. I have not been over looked but rather His eyes and attention are constantly on me. My freedom comes in acknowledging God’s right to say where I am to be, what I am to be doing, and how I am to be doing it. He sets the agenda. He maps out the course. He guides and directs. His plans and thoughts are higher than my own.

Do I still have desires and wishes? Absolutely! But they are being laid at the foot of the cross with a heart of submission to and acceptance of what God wants for me. I don’t want to live my life honed in on what I cannot do but rather on all that He allows me TO do. He may still choose to have me serve Him in the place I desire to serve, but it will have to be on His time table. If it never comes about then it was not part of His best for me. I am not being neglected or ignored. I am being loved, cherished, and led by the Lover of my soul!

Father, You know my heart’s desires. As I set my affections on things above, change what needs to be changed, solidify what needs to be solidified, and accomplish Your will for me. Amen.

God Is In Control - Twila Paris
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iQHlKc8DrB4&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Necessary Boundaries

For even though I am absent in body, nevertheless I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good discipline and the stability of your faith in Christ. Colossians 2:5(New American Standard Bible)

The disciplines (order) of the Christian life are a part of the stability of our faith in Christ. We need the order. We need the discipline. For me, the disciplines of my faith include being part of a local church, reading the Bible, prayer, separation from the world, sensitivity to the Spirit, confession of known sin, living in harmony with others, seeking God’s will and face, remaining honest with God, others, and myself, and striving to walk in truth. As I practice these disciplines, I find myself more sure-footed in my faith. When I allow these disciplines to slip and I become less conscious of them I tend to feel unstable in my walk.

Discipline is often thought of as a negative aspect of life. We can limit it to correction and reprimand. In today’s passage it has more to do with the ordering of our life. Setting up the boundaries, guidelines, and guardrails that we need to live and walk in peace, safety, and strength is good and necessary.

I am aware this morning of a boundary I need to establish and the necessity of that boundary is more than apparent. To ignore it and refuse to institute it in my life will bring heart ache, disaster, and ruin. I have tasted of that fruit in the past and have no appetite to repeat the scenario. I have shared before of my tendency to become emotionally dependent on others. I enjoy many relationships without this factor and I cannot fully explain why it enters the picture of others. I know though the moment it is present. Up until this point, I have always given in to the desire to make others responsible for my happiness, security, significance, and worth. Emotions run high or low depending on their availability to me and involvement with me. Relationships cannot and will not survive such expectations.

In the past, three scenarios played out which included this ingredient of dependency. One came full circle and blossomed into a beautiful friendship. One saw a complete severing that still finds me hurting over from time to time. One is presently being walked through with hopes of freedom and an awareness of one who is choosing not to walk away. Recently a new one surfaced on the horizon. I am seeing aspects in myself that have the signs of dependency and I am determining to establish boundaries in order to be in relationship without the bondage. The boundaries? To not allow myself to seek comfort, advice, or guidance from her. Sharing problems and difficulties as a way of gaining attention, acceptance, or sympathy will only fuel the need for this person to have a prominent place in my life. I cannot afford to repeat that mistake. Friend? Yes! Replacement of all that God wants to be to me? Absolutely not! Afraid? Only if I refuse to establish the boundary.

Father, I see what is necessary. Walk me through this newest scenario to freedom. Amen.

Power of Your Love - Hillsong
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ga6Qtxzd6vk&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

When It Is For Him

Whatever may be your task, work at it heartily (from the soul), as [something done] for the Lord and not for men, Colossians 3:23 (Amplified Bible)

While this passage refers to work ethics at places of employment, it took on new significance to me as I pondered some actions God was calling me to take. It followed a time of asking God how I was to go about doing the very things He was instructing me to do. None of those things came naturally for me. None would come from my own personal desire and ambition. I have found when God gives me a command that requires super natural ability, the super natural ability will come from Him….just as soon as I become receptive and willing.

So what is it that God is wanting me to do? Walk in love toward an individual who seems to want nothing to do with me. A person I see often but whose actions and demeanor make me feel unwanted and unwelcome. To stop allowing my perceptions to rule me. To allow Him to change the way I “deal” with negative feelings and emotions. To trust in Him and His goodness. To live outside my own box of perceived needs and necessities.

Each of these and more are possible as I depend upon God for the ability and as I realize I am doing them for Him. What I can’t or won’t do for myself or for another individual can be done for God whole heartedly. When He is the One I am seeking to please and delight, my heart attitude is corrected and the actions follow.

In Psalm 32:8, God promises to guide and instruct me. When I become willing to do something for Him, it opens the door to that guidance and instruction. As soon as my heart is bent toward Him, I have no trouble discerning what I need to start doing and how to do it. I also have no trouble knowing He will supply the ability in accordance to a fresh desire to obey Him. Whether it is in the area of forgiveness, trust, or love, I can anticipate His support and assistance through out the task at hand.

Behind each command that I am hesitant to follow, I must tune my ears to hear Him say, “Will you do it for Me?” Somehow, that question gives me a whole new perspective and desire. The sense of excitement lets me know He has special things in mind as I carry out His wishes. He has begun to replace hesitancy, fear, and unwillingness, with an enthusiastic readiness to begin to implement His plan of action. I can’t wait to see what comes of this!

Father, thank you for making this about You! Amen.

You're Still God - Kathy Troccoli
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CvclzwpAMxg

He is wooing you from the jaws of distress to a spacious place free from restriction, to the comfort of your table laden with choice food. Job 36:16

It Should Make a Difference

For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding. Colossians 1:9 (New American Standard Bible)

Paul’s pattern for prayer leaves me in awe. Read any of his epistles and you will find the same theme regarding his prayers for fellow believers. Many of them were young in their faith and facing difficulties of persecution, false teachings, and living in a society that did anything but encourage a deep walk with God. While he could not be with them in person, he continually lifted them up to the One who was with them on a permanent basis. God held their spiritual lives in His hands and was faithfully helping them to take steps forward on their journey. Paul was not only passionate about sharing the gospel but was deeply concerned about the spiritual growth that would follow each salvation decision. Each convert and each congregation held a special place in his heart and he expressed his love and concern in his prayers and in his letters to them.

My Bible note gives an interesting interpretation of the knowledge for which Paul prayed. It says, Biblical knowledge is not merely the possession of facts. Rather, knowledge and wisdom in the Bible are practical, having to do with godly living. In other words, my actual intake of Biblical knowledge is proportional to how I am applying it to my life. If it is not making a difference in the way I think, speak, and act it is merely mental ascent. So how will I know if God’s Word is having an effect on me? Paul proceeds with quite the litmus test.

His desire (and God’s desire) is that each believer lives a life that is pleasing to God, full of fruit from their good works, continually increasing in the knowledge of God, strengthened by the very power of God, persistent and patient in their walk, and joyfully thankful to the God who has saved them. Does it mean we reach perfection in this life? No. But it does demonstrate a need for progress. How well are we doing at allowing God to instill these qualities in us? God’s Word is meant to be read and then bred in us. May genuine change be evidenced to ourselves as well as the people in our lives.

Father, taking in Your truths is the easy part. Living out what I take in is the daily challenge. I look to You for the strength and ability to run my race well. May I not block Your work in me. Amen.

Thy Word - Amy Grant http://youtube.com/watch?v=RNkwbEwA-DY

I welcome your questions and comments to any devotional thoughts. I am honored and delighted to share my journey with you and privileged to hear of yours.

In the Name of Jesus

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 3:17 (New International Version)

Read back through the book of Acts and you will see a phrase often used in times of miracles and healings by the apostles…. “In the name of Jesus.” Whenever I see it, I have no trouble realizing the miracles came through the authority and empowerment of Jesus’ name. But it was never meant to be a phrase limited merely to healings. Today’s verse is a reminder to me that it should be voiced over every thought, word, and deed of a believer’s life.

Once I understand the depth and meaning of a word it comes alive to me and affects my life profoundly. When Peter spoke to the lame man in Acts 3, the phrase, “In the name of Jesus,” came from the same Greek word as today’s verse…. Oànoma. It was used for everything His name covered…everything it stood for. It housed the rank, authority, interest, pleasure, power, command, and excellence of Jesus. So imagine the change that would be forthcoming if that phrase was spoken over everything we did! If every deed was performed in the power and authority of the name of Jesus with His pleasure in mind.

My mind is thinking ahead to the many times and places I can voice, “In the name of Jesus.” While doing housework, talking to others, working at my place of employment, answering the phone or emails, encouraging others, eating my meals, extending or seeking forgiveness, praying, taking my thoughts captive, I can and must begin doing them in the name of Jesus. To actually say it! Oh, the power of words! In God’s eyes, there is no such thing as an insignificant action. Am I aware of that?! Is shaping my day?! I pray so.

I use to think this truth was reserved for people in Bible times or today’s prominent Christian leaders and teachers. What I am coming to realize is that it is meant for me as well! It is meant for any who name the name of Jesus as Savior. God is definitely calling me out into a bolder, more verbal walk with Himself. He knows I have too often allowed His words to go unspoken. No more! Each day as I open Scripture I am bombarded by a verbal treasure cove and if I will but speak those gems of truth I will begin to see things happen that I never imagined possible. They are not simply positive words. They are empowering!


Father, I am a communicator by nature but am just now coming into a fuller awareness of words! Loosen my tongue to voice Your truth-phrases over every word and deed that takes place both privately and publicly. In the name of Jesus, amen!

In The Name of the Lord - Sandi Patty
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X8FxlN0ImqM

He is wooing you from the jaws of distress to a spacious place free from restriction, to the comfort of your table laden with choice food. Job 36:16

Knowing What to Forgive

Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Colossians 3:13 (New International Version)

Last month, a study group I am involved in, discussed the study we would like to do when we are finished with the one we are presently doing. We had a number of topics to choose from and the leading choice seemed to be in the area of forgiveness. At the time, I wasn’t sure why that topic stood out to me but I am beginning to see God’s hand in my leaning toward it.

I am presently pondering an area in my life that requires forgiveness on my part. What makes this step of obedience so difficult is that I am not exactly sure what I am forgiving the person for. While I know that I still harbor hurt and disappointment, I cannot seem to put my finger on what I am holding against this person. The fact that I can still be easily brought to tears over her decisions and actions reveals to me an internal need of releasing it all through forgiveness.

God knows the exact nature of my thoughts and feelings, and He also knows where I stand in confusion and uncertainty. This is not a time for easy words and general statements. I need to know what I am forgiving in order for it to bring about the freedom I crave. It is the key that will unlock the chains that still bind my spirit and limit my capacity to live life to the fullest.

It has taken me a while to even recognize the fact that I am walking in unforgiveness. Now that I recognize it I want to take care of it. Some would say, “Just do it.” But within the deepest aspects of my mind and heart I know there has to be a clearer picture of what I need to “just do.” I want to know what the forgiveness means and what it looks like. I want to forgive with knowledge and abandon. This has nothing to do with the other person as she is not even aware that this battle rages within me. This has to do with release and obedience on my part. It has to do with living my life in accord with the pattern Jesus set for me. His ways are higher than my own and He is calling me to come higher with Him.

Father, thank you for continually calling me to do the things that can only be done through You. I admit my need for understanding. Amen.

Mercy Said No - CECE WINANS
http://youtube.com/watch?v=Z_SjhKJgqGg&feature=related

Pain is the raw material from which can be made a soul increasingly sensitive to the existence of God's love. ~ John Woolley

Poised For Change

For this purpose also I labor, striving according to His power, which mightily works within me. Colossians 1:29 (New American Standard Bible)

Our passions can consume us and that is a good thing if the passions flow out of a deep relationship with our Creator. The Apostle Paul had two passions that stemmed from his walk with Christ. He desired to share the gospel with the world and he longed to see Christians grow and mature in their faith. What was so vital to his life, he wanted others to have as well. It was his life message! And he knew that it stemmed from God’s work being done in him. His power source was not behavior modification and will power, but rather the active influence of God’s Spirit living in him.

Many are the sad accounts of people laboring and striving according to their own power! I speak from personal experience here. When living out the Christian life boils down to church attendance, rote Bible reading, sparse prayers, and a personal list of do’s and don’ts, we have missed the essence of what it means to be in daily, intimate relationship with the God who wants to be known and experienced. But for many, their faith, life, and connection are anemic and weak. They long for more but have no idea how to make the transition. Mistakenly they assume it means changing their behavior and their activities hoping the outward change will somehow produce an inward transformation. But that is backward! Lasting and true change comes only as God is asked to change the very essence of who we are. Where does that start?

Being honest enough to admit to God that we are empty. Daring to open His Word and asking Him to show us Himself in a powerful way. Opening ourselves up to associations with people who have the kind of relationship with God that we crave for ourselves. Metaphorically sitting at the feet of authors and speakers who can give us a view of God we now lack. Learning to step outside our comfort zones and well built boxes in order to live our Christian life in a whole new way.

If I have described you just now and you long for change, be encouraged! The hunger you have is coming from God! He is awakening in you a desire to know Him more personally and to live your Christian life the way He always intended it to be lived.

Father, for each person who is empty, fill them. For each one who longs to know You, reveal Yourself. May their life be forever changed! Amen.

MY LIFE IS IN YOU LORD!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F0M0NALW7EM&feature=related

What I am Now

For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form, and in Him you have been made complete, and He is the head over all rule and authority. Colossians 2:9,10 (New American Standard Bible)

I have seen the lists before. I am referring to the lists of all that I am in Christ. The problem was that I often read them as a wish list rather than acknowledging them as truth and proceeding to live out of that truth. I didn’t realize the significance of seeing myself in light of that truth. Instead, I focused on all the things I was in the flesh. My weaknesses, failures, and shortcomings were the very things from which I drew my identity. They were constantly on my mind and in my face.

That was the case last night as I lay in bed and was reduced to tears. My final thought before drifting off to sleep was how much I needed God’s help in every area of my life. I so often turn to people and books for answers, but last night I turned to my Father. He saw the tears and heard the cry of my heart. This morning the answers are coming.

In reading through Psalm 119, I was drawn to David’s references of meditating on God’s Word, works, and ways. God’s point to me was that I must purposefully and wisely choose to dwell on the truth rather than on lies, distortions, and wrong perceptions. Think on the right things and today’s passage started the ball rolling for me.

Right now (not some day) I am complete in Christ! I not only have all I need in Him, I am all in Him. Those lists I referenced at the start of this devotional are now filling my mind as I finally view myself as forgiven, loved, chosen, cherished, accepted, cared for, watched over, held, protected, established, settled, blessed, precious, delighted in, sung over, and His daughter! Those are the things I must chose to meditate upon through out today and into the night. They must be constantly on my mind and in my face. They are the banners that are meant to dance across the full realm of my imagination.

Do they eliminate the things I still am in my flesh? No. But they far exceed them and it is to my benefit to let them be predominant in my thinking. When that is the case, I am practicing the truths God has been showing me over the past few years. It has been good to take in the truth but God now invites me to live out of those truths and see Him transform me in profound ways.

Father, I finally get it! Thank you for repeating Yourself in numerous ways until I grasped what You were saying. Amen.


Who am I - Casting Crowns
http://youtube.com/watch?v=VU_rTX23V7Q

A Journey Toward Forgiveness

Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Colossians 3:13 (New International Version)

What is it you struggle to forget? Who is it you struggle to forgive? I guarantee it is the very thing that is robbing you of peace, slowing your pace, darkening your path, draining your energy, binding you to the past, hindering you from moving forward, clouding your thoughts, limiting your effectiveness for God, casting a foreboding shadow on the sunniest of days, interfering with your ability to enjoy life, and keeping you from living the abundant life so often spoken of by Jesus. I don’t use those phrases because I have recently read them in a book or heard them delivered from a pulpit. I say them from personal experience. Those of us who have walked in bitterness and unforgiveness have no trouble describing the result of our own choice to do so. The longer we live tethered to the offenses and grievances of others the more easily the words pour out of us that describe what is going on inside us.

Sometimes things happen and words are spoken that affect you and you are able to quickly forgive the offender. But when the actions or words cut deeply and tear away at every fiber of your being, forgiveness will be a process that forever changes the dimensions of the word itself. Jesus set the example and gave the command, but He also provides the willingness and ability to carry out His desire. He knows there will be many steps to take on the road to total forgiveness and freedom.

The journey for me has come in stages. At times it felt like my shoes were covered in cement and progress was slow in coming. It took a while for me to realize and acknowledge the depth of my own pain. Layer upon layer of emotions had to be worked through in order to get to the core. Just admitting my tendency to hold on to the offense was a process. That then led to confession because that was a sin I was committing. But once that acknowledgement and confession transpired there was a necessary action I still needed to take. In some ways, it is the hardest and yet most productive.

For me it has been a matter of reviewing the very things I have been forgiven of and then systematically listing those things I am choosing to forgive in the other person. My forgiveness of another is always on the backdrop of God’s forgiveness of me. Each time this happens the wound is cleaned out a little more and the sense of freedom strengthened. Each time there is a moment of release for both myself and the other person. I am not going to rush this stage. I am willing to walk through the steps as many times as it takes until the chains have been completely severed and lie in a heap. No one will have to tell me when that is the case. I will know and so will Christ.

Father, I am seeing an aspect of forgiveness I never knew. Thank you for walking me through the entire process. Amen.

Ruled and Inhabited by the Best

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts……let the word of Christ dwell in you richly. Colossians 3:15,16 (New International Version)

Have you ever been sandwiched between passages of Scripture? Last night a friend of mine readily reminded me of Philippians 4:8,9 with its list of things to think on….that which is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, and praiseworthy. I was not surprised by her choice of verses nor of her continued place as a truth teller in my life! This morning, God is sandwiching me between that passage and the entire third chapter of Colossians. They are like bookends for my soul!

At times when I feel like the emotional roller coaster will never end, when I wrongly believe the thought patterns will always have the upper hand, when I just plain want to give up, God knows better and does better. He is placing huge billboards along the highway of my mind and adding neon lights so that I will not miss what He is telling me. In short, the message is this, “Pam, think on the right things. Let My peace rule and My word dwell in you.” I have heard it said that repetition is the best teacher and I am finding that to be true! Every time I come to the difficult points God keeps repeating the same thing. He is going to make sure I eventually get it! While I sometimes have to laugh at my own slowness in receiving His words, He is determined and persistent in offering them. That in itself strengthens me.

I am seeing two fertile truths in today’s verses that are the “how to” of changing my thought processes and hence my whole demeanor. Letting the peace of Christ rule in my heart means I let it be my umpire and guide. It will let me know what is safe and what is dangerous to think on. I will do well to let His peace take over and be my major influence. The repercussions of that decision will be astounding.

Letting His word dwell in me richly means I am letting what He says make itself at home in me. In other words, it gets free run of the place! His word is meant to take precedence over everything else. It is time I started allowing it to redecorate my soul……bringing in what is good and getting rid of what is harmful or unnecessary. This is going to require the memorizing of Scripture passages (something I have been lax in over the years). I plan to start with this third chapter of Colossians. At one verse a day I will have it “living in me” in its entirety in less than a month. I invite others to join me if they so desire. May we each be ruled and inhabited by His peace and His word.

Father, I stand in awe of You this morning. You have made Your message clear to me and by Your grace I receive it. Amen.

Necessary Placement

And set your minds and keep them set on what is above (the higher things), not on the things that are on the earth. Colossians 3:2 Amplified Bible

I like how the Message puts this verse. “Don’t shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ.” I cannot afford to let my guard down when it comes to the affections of my heart and the meditations of my mind. For the minute I stop filtering my thoughts through the grid of God’s truth I set myself up for a downward spiral. The minute I allow the enemy to distract me by dwelling on the thoughts he presents to me I am in trouble. Those things I spend my time and energy thinking on will either strengthen me or weaken me in my body, soul, and mind.

Just like the children of Israel kept living out their days in a cycle mode of idolatry, captivity, repentance, deliverance, and rest, the cycles of my mind can spin out of control as well. For me, it works like this. I take in truth and stand in that for a while. The enemy comes along and introduces any number of thoughts to me. At first I see the attacks and proceed to rebuke them. The trouble comes when I let down my guard and begin to consider the thoughts. Not for a moment. Not for a while. But rather for unlimited time. It is an “all you can think” buffet! I have now set my mind on his distorted views and interpretations and very quickly I am filled with hopelessness, discouragement, self-loathing, and helplessness. The sense of abandonment by people and invisibility to God sets in and I find myself in quite a mental and spiritual mess. As if that is not enough, the enemy then begins to condemn me for being in such a place. I am in further trouble if he can convince me this is all my own doing.

My deliverance comes as God reveals to me that the enemy is at work and I will only regain my strength and footing by renouncing the lies, voicing the truth, and once again setting my mind, heart, and affections on God! This includes confessing my lack of trust and acknowledgement of who God really is. It also includes once again proclaiming Him to be my only true Source, Help, and Hope.

Father, my dark thoughts have once again given way to the light of You! I don’t stand a chance of surviving apart from connecting with You, relying on You, and looking to You. Hold me, help me, and heal me. Amen.

Conduit or Main Source?

Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed , and overflowing with gratitude. Colossians 2:6,7

Does this passage describe the average Christian you see? Is it a portrayal of you? I read words like “rooted, built up, and established” and my mind begins to get certain pictures. I see huge oak trees, massive structures, and solid foundations. They denote steadfastness, durability, stability, permanence, immovability, and strength. They endure storms, withstand winds, and carry on amidst adversity.

Have you ever met a person who seemed to have a firm handle on the Christian life? They knew who they were in Christ, lived with an energy of deep faith, were secure in God’s love for them, and had the ability to stay firm in their walk come what may! For many years, they were the kind of people from whom I sought shelter. I wanted to be connected to them because of their connection with God. At any given moment, their wisdom was what I sought, their advice was what I asked for, their guidance is what I needed. Under their care I felt nurtured, safe, and loved. They were the conduit of all God wanted to give me directly but I failed to see how I was making them my main source.

The result? I lived under other people’s faith. I lacked having my own vibrant, daily relationship with God. I lived ‘satisfied’ to feed off their plates instead of learning to banquet at His table. My faith was weak, my prayer life was almost non-existent, my time in the Word was inconsistent, my ability to hear God’s voice was rare, my security was shaky. I was miserable!

Praise God those phrases are all spoken in the past tense! The day finally came when I accepted Jesus’ invitation to “Come unto Me”! God’s heart cry is that each one of us would have a vibrant, personal, unique relationship with Him. That can only be possible as we spend time in His Word, in prayer, and in His presence. Learning to see God as our main source takes time. And it requires that we learn to let go of the hands we have clung to so that we can finally grasp His hand!

Father, I am still in the process of finding You to be my all in all! It is difficult at times but You are being gracious with me as I learn. Amen.

Separated But Not Apart

For even though I am absent in body, nevertheless I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good discipline and the stability of your faith in Christ. Colossians 2:5

Paul was a person who knew how to stay connected with the people of faith. Many of his epistles were written from prison and yet he was able to express a closeness and a love for his fellow believers even though they were separated by many miles. They were in his thoughts, his heart, and his prayers. His joy came from knowing they were growing in their faith and firm in their relationship with God. While he could not be with them in person he could still be with them in spirit and that is one of the most encouraging and beautiful aspects of the Christian life.

I am a very social person. I love getting together with friends over lunch or being in their home for a day or two. The fellowship of believers is something I enjoy immensely. But separation is a difficult thing for me. While God would bring incredible people into my life it seemed I only had their presence for a short time. I often joke with people and say when I get close to a person, God tends to move them out of state! He knows my tendency toward dependency and even idolatry. Relying on Him is easier done when the ones I would cling to are far removed.

How encouraging it is to know that while we are apart from each other, Paul’s words express our sentiments toward each other. This morning, God has used this verse to encourage me. I have several very significant people whom I miss a lot. Sometimes our ability to get together is separated by years! But God is letting me know that what Paul is saying in Colossians 2:5 is the very heart of how we feel toward each other. Former mentors of mine are thinking of me, praying for me, and rejoicing to see God’s work in me. And when they enter my mind it is always cause for rejoicing and thanksgiving for the part they played in my life. I also know that God continues to use them in the lives of others.

So while I long to see them and miss them deeply I am resting in the fact that we still share a closeness and connection. Miles and time may separate our bodies but NOTHING separates our spirit.

Father, You have caused some incredible people to cross my path. The mere thought of them brings me joy. Thank you for our continued togetherness. Amen.

A Change of Relationship

And although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, engaged in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach. Colossians 1:21,22

I love the beauty of the word ‘reconciled’ and it is so profound in this verse. It means to be made right, become friends, and brought together. Look at the comparison of words….formerly alienated, hostile, and evil deeds presented holy, blameless, and beyond reproach! Makes me wonder how I could have ever thought of God as tolerating me more than loving me. When a person puts their trust in Christ they enter into a whole new relationship with God. They go from being His enemy to His precious child (Romans 5:10). Where once they were far away from God they are brought near (Ephesians 2:3,12).

Many people are under the assumption that because God created each one of us we automatically are His children….hence the idea of the Fatherhood of God. Not true! Because of Adam and Eve’s sin in the garden we are all born separated from God….alienated if you will. We are foreigners to Him and His ways. Because we were created in His image we may possess some good qualities ….kindness, love, compassion, etc… But there is no relationship with Him. The Bible says we are children of wrath not children of God.

Many people believe they are Christians because they go to church, love their neighbor, or attempt to keep the ten commandments. What they fail to realize is that none of those things make you a Christian. They are commendable things but unable to bring you into right relationship with God. There is only one way to become God’s child and that is by being born into His family. And a person is born into God’s family when he trusts Christ and accepts Him as his Savior. His death on Calvary and subsequent resurrection made it possible for people to be reconciled to God. But they must personally accept Him before that takes place. May we take the opportunities to share that with them.

Father, our reconciliation is a beautiful thing. You drew me near and now call me your daughter. May our Father/daughter relationship continue to be profound. Amen.

A Change of Kingdoms

For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son. Colossians 1:13

Whether or not we are fully aware of it, much takes place the moment we trust Christ as our Savior and Colossians 1:13 is an explanation for all the change. A couple nights ago I was talking with one of my brothers and in the course of the conversation I was telling him the things that instantly changed in me when I became a Christian. These were things that had not previously been a part of my life. Here are the changes that came to mind: I had an assurance of Heaven, I had a desire to read the Bible, I had an awareness that my sin offended a holy God, I wanted to be in church and fellowship with believers, I had new ambitions and new desires, I was accountable to God, my mindset was different, and I was able to understand spiritual truths. What a change from the way I spent my first 14 years!

At the time, I did not understand I had been taken out from under the authority and rule of Satan and brought into God’s kingdom, rule, and authority. As a matter of fact, I did not even know those two kingdoms existed but they did. Prior to my salvation I was actually living under the philosophy, mindset, and dominion of God’s enemy. I had a blindness and disinterest in anything that pertained to God. I was ruled by my flesh with a strong propensity toward sin. Even though I was created in the image of God I was not displaying that in my actions, words, or thoughts. Although I was not a Satan worshiper per se, I was one of his captives.

But that captivity ended when Christ became my Savior. He not only brought me into His family but He transferred me into His kingdom as well. Under His authority and care I was able to live my life differently. Being in Christ made me a new person and the old way of life gave way to a new way of life. This included a new way of thinking, acting, speaking, and living. It did not mean perfection….that will not be attained until I am in Heaven. It meant a life of progress one step at a time. I have made my share of mistakes along the way, blown it in many ways, and misunderstood countless things. BUT God’s hand has never let go of me, His eye has never been taken off me, and His kingdom has remained my place of residence.

Father, I thrive under Your rule, care, and authority. I am at home with this kingdom life. Thank you for placing me under Your domain. Amen.

From Recipient to Distributor

We give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and the love which you have for all the saints. Colossians 1:3,4

Can you imagine receiving a letter to your church from a leading evangelist of our day? While he may not have directly started your church, word has gotten back to him about the condition of your church and it was a good report. The church of Colossi was not founded by the Apostle Paul. It was founded by one of Paul’s converts…Epaphras. But that did not stop Paul from taking this church into his heart and bathing it in prayer. Paul wasted no time in thanking God for His work in their life and in giving the assurance of his continued prayers for them. He starts right out rejoicing for their evident faith in Christ and love for one another.

I heard a sermon yesterday that emphasized the importance of encouraging one another. The message illustrated something I have been aware of for quite some time. We need each other. We need to be encouraged and we need to be encouragers. I wrote down one quote that spoke volumes to me, “Spiritual maturity does not mean needing each other less.” While God should be my ultimate source for encouragement He uses many avenues to impart that encouragement to me…..His Word, music, other believers, books, prayer, etc… But lately He is challenging me to be an encourager to others. His intent is that I take what has been so lavishly given to me and now lavish it on others.

I like Paul’s pattern shown in most of his New Testament books. He is thankful to God for others, he is a prayer warrior for others, he emphasizes the good qualities he sees God instilling in them, and with love he addresses areas of concern. Is there someone to whom I can become this kind of encourager? God has graciously given me countless encouragers over the years. Their words still nourish my soul. They were faithful to mentor me and help me cultivate a walk with God. They set a good example for me to follow. May I now invest myself in others.

Father, for decades You have faithfully brought encouragers across my path. How I needed them…and still do. Show me practical ways to become an encourager to someone who needs life giving words spoken to them. I have been the recipient of such words and desire to now be the distributor of them. Amen.