Did you feel like this reading was just for you today? We are now living a new life in Christ. What does that look like for you? How does your life look different now than it did before you met Jesus? It’s after that encounter that we are “raised to new life” and begin to see the world differently. Our focus shifts.
This is the perfect passage to read when you feel old temptations lurking. We all have moments of weakness; it’s helpful to realize that and not be afraid. We have a merciful and powerful God standing guard over us. We can acknowledge Him and show our respect.
I’ve been noticing a shift in social media lately in terms of a surge in new believers. It’s fantastic that the algorithms are bringing those people into my feed. It seems like every time I turn around, I see another person who has lived in darkness finally finding the light. There must be a lot of rejoicing in heaven going on. I hope those people find these devotionals to help them get to know God better.
The apostle Paul is writing these words to the people in Colossae to encourage them as new believers. He gives great advice on what to do in those moments of weakness. “Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth.” That is good counsel for all times. I remember quoting that to one of the girls at the orphanage when she was almost begging to watch something “popular,” which I deemed inappropriately fixated on the glorification of darkness. When I could show her the Bible as my “reason,” she softened and never asked again.
Sometimes it’s hard to leave certain things behind that are familiar. New things and ways of doing things can be scary at first. We’re promised never to be alone. I love God’s promise in Joshua 1:5. “No one will be able to stand against you as long as you live. For I will be with you as I was with Moses. I will not fail you or abandon you.” We can stand on that assurance, too.
We have an even greater promise for our devotion. God not only stands by our side, but he also offers us a gift. “And when Christ, who is your life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all his glory.” We can hardly wait for this day to come, so the whole world will know Jesus.
I’m not sure what it means exactly to “share in all his glory,” but it sounds amazing. The glory of the Lord is often described as a brightness or radiance that only God, who is light, could emit. We will one day have the opportunity to stand in and share God’s glory. How does that make you feel?
Let’s pray. Father, help me to be strong and avoid worrying about the wrong things and making the wrong decisions. Instead, help me to clearly see your will for my life and follow it. Shield me from temptations that take me away from you. Prepare me for each new day here on earth so that I am ready for eternity with you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
