Daily Devotional:
Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop
Scripture Reading: Colossians 3:12-14 (NIV)
"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity."
Reflection:
In these verses, Paul instructs us on how to live as God's chosen people. The virtues of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience are not merely suggestions but are essential qualities that reflect our identity in Christ. By embodying these virtues, we demonstrate that we trust in God's wisdom and His ways, which are always best for us.
Forgiveness, as highlighted in verse 13, is central to our relationships. Just as the Lord has forgiven us, we are called to forgive others. This act of forgiveness not only heals relationships but also aligns us with God's heart.
Above all, love is the virtue that holds everything together. It is the foundation upon which all other virtues stand. When we choose to love as God loves, we create unity and harmony, reflecting the perfect unity found in the Trinity.
Application:
1. Embrace Your Identity: Recognize that you are chosen, holy, and dearly loved by God. Let this identity shape how you interact with others and how you see yourself.
2. Clothe Yourself with Virtues: Make a conscious effort each day to exhibit compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. These virtues are evidence of God's work in your life.
3. Practice Forgiveness: Reflect on any grievances you may hold against others and choose to forgive, just as the Lord has forgiven you. This act of grace brings healing and reflects God's mercy.
4. Put on Love: Let love be the guiding principle in all your actions and relationships. Love binds all virtues together and fosters unity.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for choosing me and loving me dearly. Help me to clothe myself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Teach me to bear with others and to forgive as You have forgiven me. Above all, fill my heart with Your love so that I may reflect Your perfect unity in all my relationships. Guide me each day to trust in Your wisdom, knowing that Your ways are always best. In Jesus' name, Amen.
May you be inspired today to live out these virtues, trusting that our Father knows best. Let His love and wisdom guide you as you navigate your day, bringing peace and unity to those around you.
