How do we remain thankful when life throws some unkind stuff at us?
This small phrase, “And be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15), is tucked inside an exhortation that Paul is giving to the Colossian church.
Halfway through the chapter, he, Paul, writes, “As God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Colossians 3:12
He continues saying, “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another.”
Forgive, as the Lord forgave you.
And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Let (key word) the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace.
Let’s lean in here for just a minute as the Holy Spirit teaches us:
I mentioned that the word “let” is a key word. We have to let peace rule. How? Let’s begin with a question.
- If the replay button in our mind keeps rehearsing a bad situation or conversation, how can we let peace rule?
- We should hit the stop button, not the pause button.
- The pause button indicates we will resume listening.
What do we do next?
- After hitting the stop button, think and focus on what you are thankful for.
What’s the final step?
- Hit the delete button.
Some of us have saved old, hurtful messages, texts, and emails in our inboxes, giving them access to wreak havoc in our lives again and again.
If someone has hurt you, delete that saved voicemail or damaging texts.
If we keep this door open, we are giving the enemy access to pause and resume only to replay what was said…
Don’t let the Tormentor in.
Here’s another question:
- How do intruders or unwanted guests get in our doorway? By leaving the door ajar or slightly open.
Guard and close those gateways, doorways, and entranceways.
We are told to “Open up the gates for one reason only, so the King of Glory can come in.” Psalm 24:7
This is how we LET the peace of Christ rule in our hearts.
Paul finalizes his words and says, “And be thankful.” Colossians 3:13-15
If we look at the entire chapter, Paul is pointing out the old and the new self.
How do we live like this, some may be asking?
By the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives and by having our minds renewed and transformed by the Word.
The Apostle Paul is giving us a blueprint for holy living–living a life in the Spirit of God–living a life in our new self.
Once again, the little word “let” is used in his teaching. He points out the power of His Word by saying, “Let, the Word of Christ dwell richly in your hearts and minds permeating every aspect of your being.” Colossians 3:16a
When something is “dwelling richly,” it is permeating every aspect of our lives, as I just described.
Moving on, we read, “As you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.” Colossians 3:16
Then he concludes, “And 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.” Colossians 3:17
Always give thanks…Why?
By being grateful and thankful for all God has given us, we can displace evil thoughts and words.
To displace is to expel or force, to free, to remove, and drive out.
Always giving thanks is a weapon.
This is an updated edition of a post originally published on My Beloved’s Voice
KINGDOM ASSURANCE
You can find all of the Kingdom Assurance series posts by clicking the button below.
