Scripture: But now you yourselves are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth ... Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering. Colossians 3:8,12
Observation: Paul provides the Colossians two lists, those traits they are to abandon, and those that they are to incorporate in their lives. The first list he further summarizes in terms of division between people, and the second list he summarizes as the unity of love among believers.
This is a lesson specific to the church. Within the body of believers, we are to eliminate any sort of crass, vulgar, or confrontational behavior, and replace such interactions with humble and gentle behaviors that demonstrate kindness and patience.
Application: I can do this within the group of people I associated with at church for sure, but it becomes more difficult the further the circle extends. There are those I struggle to like. There are those I simply don't really know. There are those who themselves seek to take advantage of such kindnesses. And of course there are those outside the church to whom further extending such practiced kindness is a struggle.
I pray for peace and joy. I believe these things are found within this mild and gentle approach toward others. Therefore, it is only myself that obstructs my desire to live a calm and peaceful life within the loving hands of the Lord. This is my obligation to correct in my heart.
Prayer: Lord, I desire your Spirit in my heart every day, and every moment, to guide my thoughts and actions. I desire this peace, and I know you are the source of that peace. Please aid me in finding it. I likely have about 30 years left in life, and I sincerely desire to make them count completely for your kingdom, in an attitude of joy and peace and love, and not in any way look to advance myself. May your kingdom come, on earth and in my heart. Amen.
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