12-14So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It's your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it. (The Message)
Paul keeps calling us back to a way of life that is not based upon what we do but on the attitude or heart of how it is done. Giving to someone in need out of a sense of obligation or to earn stars in heaven is not Paul's goal. To be guided by compassion in our giving is Paul's desire for us. This wardrobe that Paul lists is similar to the fruit's of the spirit that Paul mentions in Gal. 5: 22 "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control." There is a consistency surrounding Paul's encouragement that we should take seriously. These are attributes that we and others should be able to see growth in as we come closer to Jesus.
As the new year begins it might be wise to consider if we are growing in these areas and if not why not.
Some thoughts to ponder and share with others:
- In Paul's list of attributes here in Colossians or in Galatians which do you think you are best living out right now in your life?
- Of these attributes which do you believe others see as missing in your life?
- What one fruit of the Spirit do you believe Jesus is inviting you to grow in during this coming year?
- What might you begin doing today that will help you grow in this area?
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