“We always thank God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ when we pray for you because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and the love you have for all God’s people” (Colossians 1:3-4).
What do people say about you? “That person has an incredible trust in God.” “Her love and care for other people is so inspiring.” “The joy of Christ is just so evident in him.” “She has such a peace in life because of her faith.” What do people say about you?
Notice how God’s inspired writer Paul talks about the believers in Colossae? He’s thanking God for them. People have heard about their faith in Christ. People know their love for all God’s people. Could God write the same about you? About me?
Or, do we live in fear and worry? Do we harbor anger and selfishness? What do people say about us?
Remember who you are! That’s not you! God’s given you a new identity: Christ’s! God’s forgiven your sins! God’s robed you with Christ your Savior! God’s given you the sure hope of life eternal! You are an eternal child of God so there’s an inexpressible joy in your heart that will culminate in ultimate joy in God’s presence forever! That’s who you are!
And it’s in knowing who God has made us to be that we can live with faith, love, and hope…all the time!
Living to thank God with my life, just like you,
pastor