Once again when reviewing my study Bible, I found some verses that mean a lot to me personally. Often people ask me about my peace and acceptance for some of the things I have had to experience.
The Book of Colossians, chapter 3 teaches us about holy living. Paul wrote this letter to the church in Colosse which he had started. There is not enough space for me to share all of Chapter 3 so I suggest everyone read that chapter now if you really want to understand how the Holy Spirit touched my heart as if the letter was written to me in today’s world.
I am guilty of the sins, but the “right” things helped me find forgiveness and peace. Chapter 3:15 has led me to the changes I needed to make as one of God’s chosen people.
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”
Can you feel that peace to which he is referring? Are you thankful for all things…even those that are not your choice?
In Chapter 4, we are given some “further instructions:” verse 2 in that chapter advises us to “devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” Chapter 4:5-6 reads: “Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.”
Verse 6 warns us to “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
In my early adult years, I was so shy and always afraid that I might say the wrong thing so often I said nothing. I was one of those “wall flowers.” These days, that seems to happen more with family and loved ones. Sometimes I can express my thoughts and feelings with strangers easier.
Perhaps you have these or other similar feelings and thoughts. We may agree or disagree, but we can all pray that we will make ourselves dear to others and use every opportunity we have to share Christ.
In his last instructions to the disciples (Matthew 28:18-20), Jesus gave what has been adopted as “The Great Commission.”
“All authority in Heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
It took me a lot of praying, reading, and studying to realize his instructions are for us today just as they were for the disciples who walked on earth with Him.