Tag: The New Life Series

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THE NEW LIFE :: REPRESENT JESUS

AT RHW WE PUBLISH A NEW COLUMN EACH FRIDAY. WE’RE GOING THROUGH FOUR SPECIFIC STUDIES WITH EACH SERIES BEING PUBLISHED ON A DESIGNATED WEEK OF THE MONTH.

In THE NEW LIFE series we’re studying one of my favorite chapters in the Bible: Colossians 3:1-17. As you will see, this is a rich chapter full of valuable life transforming lessons. Today’s column concludes this series for 2020.

 

Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.  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: 16-17

As we wrap up The New Life series today, we focus on the last two verses in my favorite section of Scripture. Here the Apostle Paul encourages his readers with some important words that perfectly cap off our study. Let’s look at four points and apply them to our lives today.

  • Let the Word of Christ Dwell In You Richly

It’s easy to allow our Bible reading to become a rote habit, flying through a chapter of Scripture just to get it checked off our to-do list. If we’ll take time to slow down and chew on a verse slowly we will find God’s Word more nourishing to our soul and spirit.  As we meditate on Scripture it will become more a part of who we are. Little by little a change will show up in our words and behavior. Soon our life will begin to reflect the character of Christ for others to see.

  • Teach One Another with All Wisdom

This verse flows so beautifully to talk next about teaching each other. As we have filled our spirits on God’s Word we will naturally want to share it with those around us. The more we know Christ, the more we will want to tell others about Him. We will be drawn to opportunities where we can share God’s goodness with those who need to hear it.

  • Sing psalms to God with Gratitude in Your Hearts

One of the most important things we can do is sing songs of gratitude and worship to God. It not only lifts our spirits but it honors God for who He is and what He has done for us. The book of Psalms is the best place to go when troubled. The songs there span every human situation and emotion imaginable. The psalmists put words to our heartache and troubles. They help us process our pain while the Holy Spirit brings healing and wholeness in a time of need.

  • Do Everything Representing the Name of Jesus

To top it all off, we must do everything as a representative of Jesus Christ. As Christians we are ambassadors for Christ to the world. We are in essence presenting what may be the only Jesus some people may ever see. Our words and actions must be in harmony with Jesus’ identity and be under His authority. Wherever we go, whatever we do, we are leaving an impression on people. Will they see Jesus Christ when they see and talk to me? It’s my prayer that others will see will see more of Him and less of me. That they truly will see Christ in me.

Take a few minutes and be blessed with this beautiful song by Jeremy Camp.

Today we bring this series to a close. If you’ve missed any of the columns this year, please check out all the previous articles here: THE NEW LIFE SERIES. I hope this series has been a blessing to you like it has been for me.

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THE NEW LIFE SERIES :: BE THANKFUL

AT RHW WE PUBLISH A NEW COLUMN EACH FRIDAY. WE’RE GOING THROUGH FOUR SPECIFIC STUDIES WITH EACH SERIES BEING PUBLISHED ON A DESIGNATED WEEK OF THE MONTH.

In THE NEW LIFE series we’re studying one of my favorite chapters in the Bible: Colossians 3:1-17. As you will see this is a rich chapter full of valuable life transforming lessons. Join me on the third Friday of each month in 2020 for this in-depth Bible study with real world applications.

And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.~ Colossians 3:15

In today’s verse Paul encourages us to let God’s peace rule our hearts. Because we are members of the body of Christ we are called to live in peace. And then should always be thankful.

Umpire of Peace

The word rule in this scripture comes from the language of athletics and refers to an umpire or referee. Our hearts are often the center of conflicting feelings and emotions–hopes and fears, love and jealousy. Paul is telling us to let the umpire of peace choose between the conflicting elements. Which choice will bring peace to our soul or our relationships?

Life of Peace

Having received Christ as our Savior we are now members of His mystical body, the Church. And as such we are called to live peaceful lives. Lives that are peaceful are free from anxiety, fear or worry.

Don’t worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart. And God’s peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus. ~ Philippians 4:6-7

With the peace of Christ ruling our hearts we will truly able to be thankful. Here are three things we should all be thankful for:

  • God has chosen us. We should be so thankful that God has chosen us to be a part of His forever family.

You are the people of God; He loved you and chose you for His own. ~ Colossians 3:12

  • God’s gift of Christ. We should be forever thankful for the gift of Christ’s sacrifice which allows us to have relationship with our heavenly Father.

Praise God for his astonishing gift, which is far too great for words! ~ 2 Corinthians 9:15

  • God’s gift of life. We should be thankful for all the things we’ve been given: God’s Word, air, food, water, shelter, sun, rain, family, friends, flowers, dogs, ice cream… for all things!

And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. ~ Ephesians 5:20

 Join me in a worship of gratefulness with this awesome song  by  Elevation Worship

Elevation