A Monday Morning Challenge

"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience," (Colossians 3:12 NIV).

That is a lot. A verse so full of direction and challenge is a big way to start the morning. But, the reminder Paul gives us here, in his letter to the church in Colosse and all believers, is so precious for our hearts to hold close. 

First we are called God's chosen people. What an honor and what big shoes to fill! Yet, Paul reminds us that we are holy and dearly loved. I picture God's mighty hands lifting us up and embracing us with His wonderful love.

Then comes the directive on how we are to act, as God's chosen people. Clothe yourselves with compassion and kindness. Oh, if only my heart was always filled with these characteristics. What a beautiful world we would live in if we all held compassion and kindness as our usual pattern of action.

Then Paul tells us to clothe ourselves in humility. Being humble used to be easy when I had no self-confidence. Can I consider myself worthy of God's love and be humble at the same time? It seems to be a serious balancing act for me. 

Finally, this verse tells us to be gentle and patient. Gentleness fits well with acts of kindness and a heart full of compassion. But, patience is a quality that seems to take more work than the others. Our society seems to have the attitude of wanting things to happen right now. That doesn't fit well with having patience. I need to slow things down and wait for God's timing to be my guide; easier said than done.

Wow. I want to be this person that Paul describes. I want to wear compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Do you struggle with any of these or am I the only one?

O God, so Great and Caring, help me be the person you want me to be, today and each day forward. I need your help. I miss the mark by so much! Help me change my attitude to be as Paul tells me. Give me encouragement to be a person of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Show me the way, Lord. I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.