Lifted Vision Ministry

Hello interweb! Today I want to break down a verse in the bible that deserves ample recognition! The characteristics displayed in this verse can even be considered the true center of Christian life. These core attributes are all wrapped up neat and tidy in Colossians 3:12.

Colossians 3:12 (KJV)

“Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;”

Okay, so at first glance, this sentence of scripture seems to be a random list of uncorrelated words. (Where was Paul’s head that day?)

However; taking the time to break down and actually study the living Word of God proves to be a much more comprehensible and enjoyable practice rather than just reading it subjectively; so let’s get into it!

First of all, Paul gives a compliment to the faithful brethren in Christ at Colosse calling them ‘holy and beloved’ (Col 1:2). We know he’s talking to the believers (not only because he states it) but because he calls them the ‘elect of God’; which all believers in Christ are (1 Peter 1:2).

Ok, now let’s get to the meat of this verse. What are we supposed to ‘put on’? The completely attainable core values of Christians are as follows:

Bowels of mercies– Showing compassion or forgiveness toward someone whom it is within one’s power to punish or harm

Kindness– Behavior marked by ethical characteristics, a pleasant disposition, and concern for others.

Humbleness of mind– An attitude of lowliness; esteeming ourselves as small, a deep sense of one’s moral littleness; which is the correct estimate of one’s self.

Meekness– A modest mind which prefers to bear injuries rather than return them; a neediness shown in your relationship to God

Longsuffering– Associated with endurance; having or showing patience in spite of troubles, especially those caused by other people; having a long fuse.

Now you may be thinking ‘completely attainable’? Yeah right. 

But the truth of the matter is that the believers power comes from God and through Him we can do anything.

Ephesians 1:19-23 (NLT)

‘I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God’s right hand in the heavenly realms. Now he is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else—not only in this world but also in the world to come. God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made him head over all things for the benefit of the church. And the church is his body; it is made full and complete by Christ, who fills all things everywhere with himself.’

Realize that what is impossible for man is endlessly easy for God and can also be for us through His power! Philippians 4:13 says;

(KJV) ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’

The scripture doesn’t say most things or some things; it declares that we can do all things through Him!

Pray to be more like Christ in your attitude and behavior towards others and God will give you the victory through Him! That my friends, is the key to this equation.

Remember Jesus’ wise words;

John 15:5  (NIV)

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

You don’t have to keep trying and striving to be a better person on your own. If you want to thrive inthis life then call out to your Father in heaven, who cares for you immensely, and let Him refine you as He sees fit for His glory. How abundantly the fruit will grow, the closer we get to Him.

Praying everyone has a wonderful God-concious day! Let the peace of God reign in your heart! 💗