“Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ.” (Colossians 2:8)
The rise of social media and fake news continues to capture our attention, so this verse may be reassuring and affirm our need for Jesus. We are also reminded that Christ-like thinking is what we should strive for, avoiding all other nonsense. Knowing Jesus, then, is crucial for us to be able to have such discernment.
Context: Paul speaks to the Colossians in this whole chapter about the dangers of the world, the corruption of sin, and how Jesus is the answer to all of it. Paul is encouraging the new believers of the freedom our new lives in Christ will bring. Knowing Jesus is key, and this verse helps us remember that.
Sometimes it’s hard to sort out the noise. It seems like just when you think things couldn’t get any crazier, they do. I’m not sure Paul would have anticipated such things, but in his own day there was plenty of bad information, persecution, and misunderstanding about Jesus. Having verses like this one memorized can help us keep the focus on Jesus. When we know he is the answer, our king, and our friend, we can trust him to help us sort through the lies of the world.
Human thinking is limited, but God’s wisdom is boundless. Why would we spin our wheels letting the nonsense of the world get us down? Well, for one thing, we live in this world. It’s hard to escape what’s playing like a broken record on the news. Each time I find myself spiraling, I look for Jesus’ truth to reassure me that my place in this world is only temporary. He is preparing a much grander future for me than I could ever imagine.
There is a worship song that calls out the holiness of Jesus’ name, “Holy Forever,” by Chris Tomlin (one of my favorite worship leaders). I love CeCe Winans’ version, and you can listen here. Here is a snippet of the lyrics.
Your name is the highest
Your name is the greatest
Your name stands above them all
All thrones and dominions
All powers and positions
Your name stands above them all
Knowing Jesus is realizing his holiness and recognizing we can be in relationship with our friend and king, Jesus.
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, I thank you that you have made yourself known to your people. Your ways are the greatest and the highest; you are holy indeed. Wash over me and fill me with your peace. Help me to discern your voice over all the noise of the world. May I never give up hope because my salvation and future is securely in your hands. Watch over me and keep me strong. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
