August 1, 2015
Scripture Reading: Colossians 3:12-19
12Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
18Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.
19Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.
Questions for Reflection:
Paul regularly instructed couples on how they could act toward one another. What instructions did Paul give to wives and husbands? It’s important to always look at the context of the letter. On there own, there might be hesitancy to embrace Paul’s instruction. What broader principles does Paul instruct God’s people with in the passage? Of the actions that Paul calls the Colossians to in verse 12, which of those is the hardest for you? Spend time praying through the passage today asking God to clothe you with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Ask him to help you forgive and love. Ask him to help you glorify God through your relationships.