Being the Boss

Being the Boss

Colossians 4:¹ Masters, be fair and just in the way you treat your slaves. Remember that you too have a Master in heaven.

 

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“When I’m in charge, things will be different” I said to myself. I was tired of being told what to do from harsh people and wanted to do the “telling” in a more gentle way. I was given the responsibility of managing a few people. It was exhausting! They had many questions and were not completing the work. “Maybe I should be harsh” I thought to myself.

 

• I was willing to fire people for not doing the work.
• I did not want to hear excuses.
• I thought being the boss would be easier than it was.

 

“Master” and “slave” are still hard words to overcome. For centuries, people of all races have tried to get people to do forced work while reaping the benefits of free labor in search of profit margins. Paul did not have the verbiage of “employee” and “employer.” He warns those in charge that GOD is watching.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to treat all people “fair and just”
• If I am in charge of people, my first reaction needs to go through GOD.
• Since I report to GOD, I must take into account HIS desires and purpose for me and my employees.

 

“Person” or “Profit”? I mean, do I see people and their needs or do I only see the company and its needs? This is a struggle as profit margins wane. BUT GOD has a remedy. HE simply wants to be the boss in all situations.

 

Being “fair and just” does not mean being a pushover. GOD wants me to treat employees with respect and pay him or her wages due to the work they have completed. I cannot favor one person over the other and I can correct employees as GOD corrects me.  I gladly yield to GOD’s authority because HE shows me compassion and correction.

 

Challenge

• What words from the writer, if any, are difficult to absorb?
• Have you ever managed employees or got tired of the “boss?”
• If you ever manage people or a project, will you place GOD over all your actions and decisions today?

Invisible Slavery

 

Invisible Slavery

Colossians 3: ²² Slaves, obey your human masters in all things, not only when they are watching you because you want to gain their approval; but do it with a sincere heart because of your reverence for the Lord. ²³ Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as though you were working for the Lord and not for people. ²⁴ Remember that the Lord will give you as a reward what he has kept for his people. For Christ is the real Master you serve. ²⁵ And all wrongdoers will be repaid for the wrong things they do, because God judges everyone by the same standard.

 

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Despising my job had become paramount in my life. When I punched out on Thursday night, my weekend was supposed to begin. Instead of relaxing, I groused that I needed to be back at work Sunday night. “I hate this job!” I thought to myself when I heard of stories of people having “fun” while I was working.

 

“Slaves” is a difficult word to get over and so is the word “master.” Humans have used these categories to debase people and force people to do “work” while they lived a life of luxury. When Paul wrote this letter, acceptable categories of “worker” did not exist. He told those who did the work to do it for CHRIST.

 

My Observations

• Greedy people will always want someone to work for them, BUT GOD sees my heart when I work for HIM.
• Title seekers want to be in control of the workforce, BUT GOD wants me to recognize CHRIST as the real “boss” who owns my life.
• Micromanagers may hover over my shoulder as I clean a toilet for work, BUT GOD wants all my heart and HE sees my work and rewards it when I give it to HIM.

 

Relabeling work to acceptable titles has made “slavery” invisible and acceptable. I mean, I despised being a janitor because of the hours away from “fun.” But when I got a “career” job I spent double the hours away from “fun.” My job had me in an invisible slavery that made me money and kept me from speaking about JESUS.

 

GOD despises hierarchies, especially those created to hold another human “down.’ HE sees injustice and has a plan to repay all who try to keep others from reaching HIS plan. CHRIST is the only leader who deserves to be bowed down to. I gladly give all my work to HIM.

 

Challenge

• What words form the writer jump out at you?
• Have you ever had a job you did not like and did it only for the money?
• Until GOD moves you to something else, will you consider dong your “work” for HIM?
• If you manage people, will you consider the fact that GOD is watching you and will repay you with how you treated HIS people?

Balanced

Balanced

Colossians 3: ¹⁸ Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, for that is what you should do as Christians.

¹⁹ Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.

²⁰ Children, it is your Christian duty to obey your parents always, for that is what pleases God.

²¹ Parents, do not irritate your children, or they will become discouraged.

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Imperfect people with many life changes, needed a way to navigate ambiguity. With hurt happening all around, something needed to be said. But what could be the problem? Imbalance.

 

• Wives had complaints about husbands.
• Husbands had complaints about wives.
• Children had complaints about parents and parents complained about their children.

 

Paul addressed issues that continue to this day. Families had become imbalanced and looked for solutions. Unfortunately the solutions must not have worked so the complaints remained. He brings the ultimate solution to address imbalance.

 

My Observations

• Only GOD can bring families back into balance.
• With CHRIST as the foundation, imbalance can be cured.
• GOD wants me to look at my role through HIS eyes instead of mine.

 

Looking at CHRIST as the answer sounds easy, but can be difficult if things are out of balance. I mean, if CHRIST is used to wound people into doing a role that is expected by another person, regret, distrust and resentment can appear. The result is more imbalance. BUT GOD has this too.

 

HE has seen family after family after family try and make mistakes. HE knows the walking wounded need help and HE is willing to bring balance to a specific role. HE wants me to come into balance with HIM first so I can see my role through healed, not hurt lenses. I am grateful for my family and love the fact that GOD loves each person far more than I could ever imagine.

 

Challenge

• What words do you get stuck on from the writer?
• What words from the writer can throw things out of balance?
• Does looking at your own role hurt or bring excitement to you?
• Will you seek a balanced approach by understanding the love that CHRIST has shown can live in you today?

Domicile Preparation

Domicile Preparation

Colossians 3: ¹⁶ Christ's message in all its richness must live in your hearts. Teach and instruct one another with all wisdom. Sing psalms, hymns, and sacred songs; sing to God with thanksgiving in your hearts. ¹⁷ Everything you do or say, then, should be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, as you give thanks through him to God the Father.

 

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Excited about having my first guest over, I made sure everything was right. I cleaned, washed and got everything ready for my guest. I got rid of that embarrassing smell from rotting veggies left out. I did not have much furniture, but what I had would have to do.

 

• I was excited to open my doors and let someone in.
• I wanted to make sure that any guest who came over felt comfortable.
• I looked for ways to make my guest welcome.

 

After Paul speaks about “CHRIST’s message must live in your hearts” he gives ways to prepare. Teach, sing and give thanks! After doing these things, the heart will be prepared.

 

My Observations

• GOD’s message must live in my heart.
• To prepare my heart for HIS message I can learn about HIM and teach what I’ve learned.
• I can also sing psalms, hymns and sacred songs with thanksgiving so HIS message can live comfortably in my heart.

 

GOD wants to come into my life. HE says “I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends.” I don’t want HIM coming into my filthy heart, but HE doesn’t mind the garbage.

 

In fact, HE would rather I let HIM clean up the mess. Once there, HE makes room for me to hear HIM and learn of HIM. HE loves when I feed HIM songs that praise HIM and ask HIM for HIS protection. I am thankful HE wants to live in my heart and I gladly give HIS message to anyone HE desires.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer emphasizes CHRIST’s message living in your heart?
• Have you ever been so mad or distracted that you were singing a song and still thinking of the trial?
• Will you allow GOD to live in your heart so HIS message can be top of mind in everything you do today?

Peaceful Decisions

Peaceful Decisions

Colossians 3: ¹⁵ The peace that Christ gives is to guide you in the decisions you make; for it is to this peace that God has called you together in the one body. And be thankful. 

 

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“You can stay with a demotion or leave with severance” were the strange options placed before me. My performance was impeccable, yet I had two bad options placed in front of me. My entire identity had been placed in that position. Something in me said “I will take you to better places.”

 

• I was at peace when I heard I could let go.
• I felt a sense of peace towards those who placed two bad decisions before me.
• I released the turmoil I had, in exchange for peace.

 

Paul provides advice for those in need of making hard decisions. Tumultuous times and difficult situations, robbed people of peace and bad decisions that would cause more turmoil were the only options. What would be the answer?

 

My Observations

• True peace can only come from GOD.
• JESUS wants me to make better decisions so HE gives me peace in the middle of the storm.
• GOD called me to have and provide peace along with others who seek HIS kingdom.

 

Harassed, worried, sleep deprived minds do not make good decisions. I mean, when I replay the trial I am going through over and over and over, I cannot rest. I think the worst is going to happen and I may make a “snap decision” that brings further regret. I may even start blaming others, which worsens the situation.

 

Decisions made for CHRIST brings peace. Sometimes a peaceful decision is not the most comfortable. It is based on following JESUS, which could be a more difficult road, laced with trials and accolades that are few and far between, if at all. I am grateful for this strange peace that provides me with HIS purpose.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer speaks about “peace?”
• Have you ever had to make a hard decision that caused you to lose sleep or to spin, thinking about the situation over and over?
• Will you settle your mind and think on CHRIST who will gladly give you peace in all decisions by asking HIM for the direction you should take today?

Multiple Lives

Multiple Lives

Colossians 3: ¹⁴ And to all these qualities add love, which binds all things together in perfect unity.

 

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“You have to be tough” is what people told me at work. This was the advice to be “successful.”  “You have to be smooth” is what my “friends” said as we entered bars and clubs. This was advice to get a “hook up.” “”You have to be friendly” or “You have to be punctual” were other words of advice that I tried to be.

 

• It was exhausting trying to be what everyone else expected me to be.
• It was hard trying to separate acting one way with one group and another way with the other.
• I was living multiple lives and at times they conflicted.

 

Paul addressed the conflict that resides in everyone. One part is sinful and the other is of GOD. People may have struggled with the “war within us” and did not know how to keep it together. One part of life would be solid while the other unraveled.  What was the solution?

 

My Observations

• Love is an eye-opening approach that GOD gave me to help me make better decisions.
• Adding love to my multiple lives reduces them into one life.
• GOD is love and wants me to use HIS way in all situations.

 

When my life is falling to pieces, love can keep it together. I mean, I can always depend on GOD loving me when the world does not. GOD’s love is unstoppable and it overcomes every situation I can face.

 

HE wants me to consider love as the glue that holds everything together. Instead of approaching situations with the way the world expects, GOD wants HIS love to be shown. If I “win” everyone else must “win” and the only way to do this is to show HIS love. I am glad HE loved me first.

 

Challenge

• What is the “perfect unity” the writer speaks about?
• Do you feel you are living multiple lives?
• Will you give all your actions, thoughts and concerns to GOD who is love and will provide love to you today?

Next Level

Next Level

Colossians 3: ¹³ Be tolerant with one another and forgive one another whenever any of you has a complaint against someone else. You must forgive one another just as the Lord has forgiven you.

 

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As we sat at the picnic table, someone knocked over a drink into “my” food. I pouted because I was a child. “Forgive” were the words given to me. After some cooling down time, I was able to let it go. After that incident, other people spilled stuff and I easily forgave. One day a bully punched me in the chest so hard I almost passed out.

 

• I had been attacked so “How am I supposed to forgive?” was my question.
• I could not fight back, but I wanted something “bad” to happen to the bully.
• I remembered the words “forgive” and I had to do it, reluctantly.

 

Paul addresses differences of opinions. One person had a way of doing things and another had an opposing way to do the same thing. This raised complaints. He provided a way to resolve the differences. “Forgive one another.”

 

My Observations

• There seems to be another level of forgiveness GOD wants me to reach.
• As life goes on, I seem to face a variety of situations and people who need me to forgive.
• GOD forgave me and wants me to forgive others, even when my complaint is justified.

 

Someone said “Forgive and forget”, but it is the “forget part that trips me up. I mean, I do remember what happened so did I not forgive? Having a good memory does not seem to be the problem. Holding back GOD’s love from someone who hurt me is the problem. Why forgive in the first place?  Because the LORD has forgiven me.

 

HE wants him or her to be forgiven too. HE knows humans will have differences in approach, values and opinions. HE also knows this will cause quarrels. HIS message still needs to be spread to everyone. The only way to spread the message is to drop my “offenses”, “defenses”  and be ready to forgive those who are hard to forgive. I am glad GOD forgave me and teaches me to forgive, little by little.

 

Challenge

• What complaint does the writer speak about that does not warrant forgiveness?
• Have you ever been stuck on doing things a certain way and have a difference in opinion that you cannot let go of?
• Will you take purpose into your relationships and forgive those who may be difficult to forgive?

First Response

First Response

Colossians 3: ¹² You are the people of God; he loved you and chose you for his own. So then, you must clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 

 

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“Aw man! I forgot a bag at the grocery store!” I said to myself. Knowing the day was full, I dreaded the trip back to the store. Long lines ran through my mind because I did not want to face this and to top it off, I noticed I had been double charged!

 

When I got there, another customer, who was returning things, moved slowly to the counter and painstakingly returned everything in the world!

 

• I had things to do and places to be.
• My first thought was to approach this with anger and rage.
• GOD made me choose smiling instead and the ordeal went quite pleasantly as I got my item and a refund for the double charge.

 

Paul tells everyone “You are the people of GOD” as if to say “Act like it.” He implies “Since you are people of GOD, act like HIM.” He then gives examples like compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. These sound familiar. Oh yeah, the fruit of the SPIRIT.

 

My Observations

• When difficult situations arise, GOD wants me to rely on the HOLY SPIRIT for the answer.
• I sometimes want to respond with my instinct, BUT GOD wants me to respond with HIS qualities.
• My first response needs to be tamed with GOD’s compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

 

Better things happen when I come into a difficult or combative situation wearing the right clothes. I mean, when I walk into a circumstance prepared to use the fruit of the SPIRIT, things always go well. Unfortunately, I choose the argument or dive into combat, never once thinking what the other person is going through.

 

GOD gives me an alternative to my first response in difficult situations. Act like I am HIS. HE loved me enough to choose me. I owe my life to HIM. I walk around naked because of sin. HE says “Here. Put these clothes on.” I am glad HE cares for me and is willing to change my first response.

 

Challenge

• Do you get a sense of family from the writer?
• What does it mean to be “chosen” and “loved” by GOD?
• Will you put on the clothes of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience as your first response today?

Renewing Image

Renewing Image

Colossians 3: ⁸ But now you must get rid of all these things: anger, passion, and hateful feelings. No insults or obscene talk must ever come from your lips. ⁹ Do not lie to one another, for you have put off the old self with its habits ¹⁰ and have put on the new self. This is the new being which God, its Creator, is constantly renewing in his own image, in order to bring you to a full knowledge of himself. ¹¹ As a result, there is no longer any distinction between Gentiles and Jews, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarians, savages, slaves, and free, but Christ is all, Christ is in all.

 

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“Where were you?” was the strange question given to me. I had snuck back to my apartment, made dinner, ate and came back to work to clock out. My clothes wreaked of cooked food and I was not where I was supposed to be. “I am disappointed in you especially.”

 

• I could see the disappointment in his face.
• I had not done what I was supposed to.
• I ruined my image over something that could have waited.

 

Paul addresses image. Some people were expressing rage, hatred and extreme feelings against or towards specific groups of people. Their image was no longer like that of GOD. Instead, they had fallen into habits that were divisive.

 

My Observations

• GOD created me in HIS image and HE was very pleased.
• Sin caused me to no longer look like HIM, rather I looked like the enemy who tried to steal me.
• JESUS restored my image and provided the HOLY SPIRIT who is “constantly renewing” me in HIS own image.

 

Being born into sin seems unfair and impossible to overcome. I mean, I did not choose to be born, yet because I was born, I an condemned! Not fair! BUT GOD saw this and made things right. JESUS saw the impossible situation, became a human, allowed HIS creation to murder HIM and was raised from the dead for all who believe.

 

Salvation changed my image from death to life. I am now alive! Because of JESUS I have purpose, abundant life and hope. I still sin, but I have an alternative and forgiveness that enables me to have peace in the middle of the storm. I am glad GOD cares about me enough to bring me back to HIS image.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer mean by “put on the new self?”
• Do you think GOD, who saved you, has left you on your own to figure out how to get out of trials?
• Will you trust GOD’s ways enough to drop some old habits and to become more and more like HIM, little by little today?

More to Life

More to Life

Colossians 3: ⁵ You must put to death, then, the earthly desires at work in you, such as sexual immorality, indecency, lust, evil passions, and greed (for greed is a form of idolatry). ⁶ Because of such things God's anger will come upon those who do not obey him. ⁷ At one time you yourselves used to live according to such desires, when your life was dominated by them.

 

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No one told me that after “doing it” for the first time, I would constantly crave to “do it” again. Something was awakened inside me that was insatiable at times. We ogled and commented about body parts and soon it became part of my everyday speech.

 

• My life was dominated and it seemed innocent.
• I had given up on being “good” so I could have pleasure.
• I found a crowd who was also dominated by the same thing.

 

Paul says something extremely hard. “You must put to death” were the extreme words he used to get people to change their minds. He never said “sex is bad” or “don’t make a living.” He warns people about an attitude that dominates a person so much, that the well-being of others gets diminished.

 

My Observations

• GOD gives me another way to look at HIS people.
• GOD wants me to see all people as HIS child who HE cares for deeply.
• JESUS gave me a new life that does not have to be dominated by sin.

 

Just having an alternative is freeing. I mean, when I had no alternative but to do sin, life seemed hopeless. BUT GOD gave me a way out. HE placed HIS HOLY SPIRIT inside me so I could take every thought captive and make it obey CHRIST.

 

Am I successful at controlling “every” thought? No. BUT GOD is pleased that I know HIM. HE does forgive me when I am weak. Forgiveness of sin is not permission to sin. HE knows I will reap what I sow. HE gives me more to life to pursue, namely HIM. I am glad GOD forgives and provides another way to live.

 

Challenge

• What stands out to you from the writers words?
• Is there any area of your life that is dominated and possibly out of control?
• Do you feel too weak to handle it by yourself?
• Will you praise GOD that HE gives your life purpose and seek HIS kingdom as an alternative to whatever is dominating your life today?

Life Focus

 

Life Focus

Colossians 3: You have been raised to life with Christ, so set your hearts on the things that are in heaven, where Christ sits on his throne at the right side of God. ² Keep your minds fixed on things there, not on things here on earth. ³ For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. ⁴ Your real life is Christ and when he appears, then you too will appear with him and share his glory!

 

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Tired of broken down cars, raggedy clothing and cheap food, I sought a career that would afford me a “better” life. When I got into that career, I found myself working incredible hours and being sent wherever they wanted me to go. I could now afford plenty, but my time was dictated to me.

 

• I had no time for other people.
• I had no time to provide a cup of water to my relatives or neighbors.
• I had no time to speak about CHRIST or to show HIS generosity.

 

Paul provides a remedy to the problems of the world. He tells everyone to “set your hearts on the things that are in heaven.” He also says “Keep your minds fixed on the things there, not things here on earth.” Being raised with CHRIST means a “hidden life” that will be manifested later.

 

My Observations

• Focusing in on things here on earth can many times have me think there is no hope, BUT GOD wants me to focus on HIM.
• Seeing all the trouble that is around me can appear like crashing waves in an endless ocean, BUT GOD wants my eyes fixed on JESUS and HIS deliverance.
• Trying to address the current trial with my own power makes me want to give up, BUT GOD wants me to see HIS kingdom and me in it.

 

Seeing GOD is hard when life has trouble. I mean, when money is tight, jobs are scarce, and help is absent, it seems like the only question that is valid is “Where are YOU GOD?” “Don’t YOU see this mess?” BUT GOD remains calm in the middle of my cry.

 

HE knows humans are limited in their thinking and would easily fall into temptation to not follow HIM, so HE hid our lives from the enemy so we would not get stolen. This means our current view of life is fake. Our “real life is CHRIST”, who will one day appear and we will appear with HIM. I place my trust in GOD who raises my thinking above the current trial.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer talk about the heart and the mind?
• Where are your biggest worries?
• Have you examined your heart to see what your largest focus is?
• Will you give what is in your heart to GOD and keep your mind focused on HIS kingdom so you can be raised above your current and future trials today?

Stay Freed

Stay Freed

Colossians 2: ²⁰ You have died with Christ and are set free from the ruling spirits of the universe. Why, then, do you live as though you belonged to this world? Why do you obey such rules as ²¹ “Don't handle this,” “Don't taste that,” “Don't touch the other”? ²² All these refer to things which become useless once they are used; they are only human rules and teachings. ²³ Of course such rules appear to be based on wisdom in their forced worship of angels, and false humility, and severe treatment of the body; but they have no real value in controlling physical passions.

 

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Moving to a new city gave me a chance to start over. I’m going to leave my “old” ways and start fresh, I thought to myself. But after a while, I found myself lonely. I wonder if I should go back to my partying lifestyle, I thought.

 

• I had second thoughts about following CHRIST.
• I justified my thoughts by saying “This is boring.”
• I felt like I needed to return to something familiar than traverse the unknown with JESUS.

 

Paul addressed the problem of people worshiping angels, idols and food. Those who had bee set free by believing in JESUS were considering rules that would put them into a worse situation. These rules were “useless.”

 

My Observations

• When I am feeling lonely, I open myself up to the world’s ways, BUT GOD is always there for me.
• When I want to get ahead in life I am susceptible to deceptive ways, BUT THE HOLY SPIRIT will not let me go to places I should not be.
• When I am too busy or harassed or frightened, I am vulnerable to accepting desperate solutions that put me in much worse situations, BUT GOD is there to pick up my brokenness.

 

Leaving JESUS to follow the world seems quick and easy, but can be detrimental. I mean, once I have been freed from the bondage of sin, I should not return to it, right? Of course not! But that’s what I want to do. I seek the comforts sin brings me and I find myself following the world’s very strong beliefs.

 

After a while, I look just like the world saying “Don’t eat that” or “Don’t handle that.” These rules are not of GOD. HE wants me to remain freed and preach the value of being forgiven. All my sins have been washed away. I have died with CHRIST. I am grateful for the new life HE has given me.

 

Challenge

• What question is the writer posing?
• Have you found yourself following human rules because you were frightened or ambitious or had a moment of weakness?
• Will you focus on the freedom CHRIST has given you so your decisions will not turn out disastrous from a spiritual perspective?

Holding On

Colossians 2: ¹⁸ Do not allow yourselves to be condemned by anyone who claims to be superior because of special visions and who insists on false humility and the worship of angels. For no reason at all, such people are all puffed up by their human way of thinking ¹⁹ and have stopped holding on to Christ, who is the head of the body. Under Christ's control the whole body is nourished and held together by its joints and ligaments, and it grows as God wants it to grow.

 

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Seeking help when I was feeling pretty low, I sought advice from the rich and powerful. I had placed my entire identity in work and now I was no longer employed. “Follow this person” and “follow that person” was the confusing advice from well-meaning people. Nothing helped.

 

• I felt lost.
• I did not know who to turn to.
• I was feeling desperate so I was open to listening to anyone who could provide a path to “success.”

 

Paul continues with another warning. He cautions everyone not to be condemned by anyone who “claimed” to be superior. These people wanted a following so they made up their visions and even worse they pretended to be humble and finally they worshipped spiritual being lower tan GOD. Their smooth talk tore people away from following CHRIST.

 

My Observations

• Following people can possibly drag me away from following CHRIST if I’m not careful.
• Acting like I’m superior or falsely humble or telling people I worship angels can bring on condemnation to others and myself.
• Being so desperate that I would follow “successful” people and let go of CHRIST can be my downfall.

 

Holding onto CHRIST is hard at times. I mean, when times are really, really difficult, it seems like someone pops up at the right time with the right solution that pulls me away from CHRIST. I ignore the warning signs of their celebrity status and place my hope in their “success.” BUT GOD wants me to act different.

 

CHRIST is the only one who is superior. HIS death, burial and resurrection gives HIM all authority over every situation. HE is the one I should seek when I am low. HE is also the one who requires praise when things go well for me. I point my life to HIM and hope you will follow JESUS.

 

Challenge

• What is the writer’s warning?
• Have you ever wanted to follow celebrities in hopes that your life would change?
• Are you willing to stop following CHRIST to obtain some temporary “success?”
• Will you seek JESUS as the head of your life and recognize HE feeds the body or church, holds it together and grows it for HIS purpose today?

Chasing Shadows

Chasing Shadows

Colossians 2: ¹⁶ So let no one make rules about what you eat or drink or about holy days or the New Moon Festival or the Sabbath. ¹⁷ All such things are only a shadow of things in the future; the reality is Christ.

 

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When I realized that my life was really, really messed up, I tried to do “right.” I started praying and reduced sins. Soon I found myself living only by “the rules.” When something else went wrong, I wondered which rule I broke to deserve a trial.

 

• I was trying to control my life.
• I was tired of things going “wrong” so I tried being “good.”
• I wound up living for the rules versus living for CHRIST.

 

Paul addressed an issue that is still going on to this very day. People worshipped food and argued over which day was holier than the next. While there may have been some merit in following “the rules” for the individual, it paled in comparison to the one solid truth, namely JESUS.

 

My Observations

• GOD’s Word is there to guide me and comfort me.
• GOD wants me to place my faith in JESUS versus being disappointed when I don’t follow the rules correctly.
• GOD wants me excited enough to tell others about JESUS instead of telling people how to “live right.”

 

JESUS is the destination. I mean, when I get caught up in trying to “be holy” I place more trust in myself, than on HIS forgiveness. JESUS paid it all. All to HIM I owe. Sin had left a crimson stain. HE washed it white as snow.

 

M destination needs to change. When I focus on what JESUS did and wants to do, it changes my wants. HE did away with all my mistakes and is in control of all my situations. I gladly live for HIM and know HE is my Savior.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer use “shadow” in the description? 
• Have you ever tried to measure how good you are by the number of rules you follow?
• Will you seek placing JESUS over everything in your life so you can be satisfied with how things are going right now and so HE can reveal people HE wants to draw to HIMSELF today?

 

Unfavorable Record Canceled

Unfavorable Record Canceled

Colossians 2: ¹³ You were at one time spiritually dead because of your sins and because you were Gentiles without the Law. But God has now brought you to life with Christ. God forgave us all our sins; ¹⁴ he canceled the unfavorable record of our debts with its binding rules and did away with it completely by nailing it to the cross. ¹⁵ And on that cross Christ freed himself from the power of the spiritual rulers and authorities; he made a public spectacle of them by leading them as captives in his victory procession.

 

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Receiving a phone call from the credit collection agency did not feel good. “You owe us $54 from three years ago” was the statement from one group. “For real?” I thought in my mind.

 

• I did not even know I had the debt.
• I was furious that the collection agency was relentless with such a small amount.
• I had to pay the debt because I owed it.

 

Paul speaks in terms most people can understand. He gives the analogy of debt, knowing most people could understand owing someone. He spoke of eternal debt that could not be repaid. The only solution was to forgive the debt by “nailing it to the cross.”

 

My Observations

• I am in great debt to GOD and need to be forgiven.
• I have sinned in a small way and a huge way and need a Savior to forgive me.
• I am forgiven for all my sins only because of JESUS.

 

Being spiritually dead mean I had no life in me to fix the problem of my relationship with GOD. I mean, I was dead! I needed help and could not do anything but lay three dead and lifeless. BUT GOD had a different plan.

 

HE saw my sins that caused me to die a spiritual death and said, “Your debt to me is canceled!” He said “You owe me everything and since you believe in MY SON, you owe me nothing.” All I can do is thank HIM for HIS total forgiveness. I am glad JESUS knows my sins, took them away from me and made the sin itself a “public spectacle” HE parades in HIS victory procession.

 

Challenge

• Have you ever been so sick that you needed other people to help you do things?
• What does the writer mean about being “spiritually dead?”
• Will you recognize that there is nothing within you that can save you from eternal death?
• Will you also recognize the need to have all your debts canceled by JESUS who is already victorious over all sin today!

 

Circumcised, Baptized, Symbolized

Circumcised, Baptized, Symbolized

Colossians 2: ¹¹ In union with Christ you were circumcised, not with the circumcision that is made by human beings, but with the circumcision made by Christ, which consists of being freed from the power of this sinful self. ¹² For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ through your faith in the active power of God, who raised him from death. 

 

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Joining a group made me feel like I finally fit in. I had gone through all the barriers of joining and received a pin that represented my inclusion in the group. To some, this was a symbol that would shape their life.

 

• I felt I was part of a group.
• I wore my symbols proudly.
• I thought the group gave me “purpose.”

 

Paul spoke of the symbolism of circumcision and baptism. He lets everyone know that true circumcision is not from humans rather it is a spiritual cutting of the heart that results  being freed from the enslaving power of sin. He also explains that baptism is a symbolic death and resurrection believers can share to show their faith in JESUS.

 

My Observations

• I can celebrate being freed from sin every day by recognizing JESUS.
• I can show the world I “belong” to the largest family that will live eternally by praising JESUS.
• I can live as a freed person by placing my trust in JESUS.

 

Circumcision and baptism are nice symbolic rituals, BUT GOD wants my heart. I mean, the rules have to apply for men and women alike. HE sees the sin in my heart and knows I need surgery that can only come from HIM.

 

HE cuts away the sin that clings to my soul and replaces it with HIS SPIRIT. HE then washes away all my sins with the blood of JESUS which covers me from head to toe. The blood that JESUS shed for me is still powerful enough to raise me from the dead. I am glad I have already been raised from an eternal death.

 

Challenge

• What circumcision is the writer speaking of?
• Have you ever just wanted to be “free?”
• Will you accept CHRIST’s freedom by being baptized into HIS vast family so you can belong to HIM today?

How To

How To

Colossians 2: ⁸ See to it, then, that no one enslaves you by means of the worthless deceit of human wisdom, which comes from the teachings handed down by human beings and from the ruling spirits of the universe, and not from Christ. ⁹ For the full content of divine nature lives in Christ, in his humanity, ¹⁰ and you have been given full life in union with him. He is supreme over every spiritual ruler and authority.

 

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“Go in and ask for advice” were the words I dreaded. I did not like this particular boss, but somehow he had made it to the level he was. “Read this book” was his advice. I was the leadership book of the day that was useful, but not life changing.

 

• I got nothing from that experience.
• I was open to change my life based on a random philosophy.
• I was focused on “me”, so anything less than getting help for “me” was disappointing.

 

Paul gives a stern warning to avoid the “worthless deceit of human wisdom.” This sounds harsh, especially to those who study and receive degrees or fancy letters behind their name. Paul was not downplaying accomplishments, rather the focus of the philosophy. If a human is exalted and JESUS is not, then the philosophy is worthless.

 

My Observations

• There have been many times when I wanted to be exalted so I read books, watched videos and attended seminars on “how to” get better, BUT GOD is my only path to true health.
• I have sought advice on “how to” live better, BUT GOD wants my dependence to be on HIM.
• I have been in dire straits and would do almost anything to get out of my circumstance, BUT GOD shows me that HE is supreme and is in control of all.

 

“How To” videos are mesmerizing these days. I mean, anyone with a smart phone can record “how to” do something. Unfortunately, some of these recordings contain content that have an inferior philosophy to that of believing in JESUS.

 

Each human wants to be GOD and wants to be in control of his or her own life. GOD wants us to surrender our desires to HIM and allow HIS SON to be exalted amongst all humans. JESUS, lived, died and was raised from the dead. I gladly give all authority in my life to HIM and know HE is in control of all my circumstances.

 

Challenge

• What do you get from the writer’s warning?
• Have you ever been so desperate that you would listen to an inferior philosophy from another human?
• Will you allow GOD to pick you back up so you can clearly hear HIM and follow the HOLY SPIRIT which draws all humans to the FATHER through CHRIST today?

Strong Roots

Strong Roots

Colossians 2: ⁶ Since you have accepted Christ Jesus as Lord, live in union with him. ⁷ Keep your roots deep in him, build your lives on him, and become stronger in your faith, as you were taught. And be filled with thanksgiving.

 

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Shaken at the experience of being robbed, I could not sleep. What if the bad guys are still out there? I started thinking of ways to “protect” myself, but came to the same conclusion each time. I was helpless.

 

• I felt unsafe.
• I wondered why things like this happened to me.
• I felt weak and alone.

 

Paul gives some advice from the LORD. “Since you have accepted CHRIST JESUS as LORD, live in union with HIM.” This message was for preparation versus encouragement. He tells everyone to have deep roots in HIM to face difficult times.

 

My Observations

Unity in CHRIST enables me to go through difficulties with a clear head.

Deep roots in CHRIST brings HIS Word to mind when I need it most.

Building my life on CHRIST gives me a firm foundation that never changes, is always there and does not falter.

 

There are a lot of scary things out there these days. I mean, the fear of the day has humans shifting from one solution to the next. Some problems seem impossible for me to fix. BUT GOD says “I got this!”

 

When I place my total faith in CHRIST, then even the most difficult of circumstances tend to clear up in ways I did not imagine. HE gives me the weapon of “thanksgiving” which slays the enemy of fear, doubt and worry. I am grateful for CHRIST and HIS sacrifice for me.

 

Challenge

• What does it mean to live in union with CHRIST?
• What do you think the writer means by “keep your roots deep in HIM?”
• Will you relook at your circumstance with the foundation of CHRIST so HE will make your faith stronger today?

Resolute

Resolute

Colossians 2: ⁴ I tell you, then, do not let anyone deceive you with false arguments, no matter how good they seem to be. ⁵ For even though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, and I am glad as I see the resolute firmness with which you stand together in your faith in Christ.

 

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Wanting to grow, I listened to “successful” people. One person on the rise gave me some advice that seemed a little off, but what did I know. It turns out, this person ended up being fired for fraud.

 

• I did not know who to believe.
• I tried to go on instinct but wasn’t getting anywhere.
• I listened to people who I thought had it together, but it turned out that they had flaws.

 

Paul gives a stern warning about people who are deceivers. These people provided very convincing false arguments that seemed to be good at the time. Paul commends those who had “resolute firmness” as they decided to stand for CHRIST.

 

My Observations

• Seeking human wisdom can sometimes get me in trouble, but GOD never fails me.
• Getting advice from people who do not believe in JESUS may lead me away from HIM.
• GOD wants me to have absolute resolve in my belief in JESUS.

 

No turning back, is a term used to illustrate going down a path and not returning back to the beginning of the path. When I decided to believe in JESUS, this was a one way path. All troubles, trials and tribulations  I face on the path should not turn me away from JESUS. Unfortunately there have been many times when I felt like giving up on HIM.

 

My walk was not as firm when I fell into temptation or when another path seemed “greener.” I would go with the flow of human advice and wind up in worse shape than the path I was supposed to be on. Fortunately for me, GOD welcomes me back to HIS path. HE picks me up and gives me resolve to follow HIM no matter what.

 

Challenge

• What deception do you think the writer is speaking of?
• Have you ever wanted something that you knew was “wrong”, yet you pursued it anyway?
• Will you seek the one and only truth from which you can base all your decisions, namely believing in JESUS today?

Not As It Seems

Not As It Seems

Colossians 2: Let me tell you how hard I have worked for you and for the people in Laodicea and for all others who do not know me personally. ² I do this in order that they may be filled with courage and may be drawn together in love, and so have the full wealth of assurance which true understanding brings. In this way they will know God's secret, which is Christ himself. ³ He is the key that opens all the hidden treasures of God's wisdom and knowledge.

 

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Despising my previous jobs as a person who cleaned after others, I set my pursuits on technology. When I got into the industry, I found I was working long hours due to the sheer amount of work and competition.

 

• I was still uneasy and unsure of my future.
• I was temporarily part of a team that seemed to change when someone moved on.
• I thought having a “good” job would bring me assurance, but it did not and I had more worries.

 

Paul explains why he did what he did. He worked hard spreading the Gospel to strangers because CHRIST HIMSELF opened his eyes to the “hidden treasures of GOD’s wisdom.”

 

My Observations

• Worldly pursuits can sometimes blind me to seeking GOD’s kingdom.
• Thinking of “getting ahead” reduces my thinking of GOD.
• I may get what I want but not want what I get.

 

Spiritual blindness is a natural born trait that seems impossible to overcome. I mean, I am born into sin and set my mind on the pursuits of sin. It seems hopeless that I am doomed to choose sinful ways. BUT GOD intervened.

 

JESUS interrupted the cycle by dying for the sins of all mankind. HIS resurrection opened up GOD’s hidden treasure that is hidden from those who do not believe. Pursuits can now be placed under the feet of JESUS so HE can guide me to where HE wants me to be. I am glad I can give everything to GOD.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer worked hard doing what he did?
• Have you ever been motivated by money or fame or power?
• Will you give your pursuits to GOD so HE can guide them and lead you on a path of unimaginable wisdom and knowledge today?