PUT ON THE ATTIBUTES OF GOD
12 Therefore, as God’s chosen ones, holy and dearly loved, put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, 13 bearing with one another and forgiving one another if anyone has a grievance against another. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you are also to forgive.
Colossians 3:12-13 (CSB)
The apostle Paul begins this section by reflecting on what believers should do before donning the spiritual attire of Christ. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on heavenly things and pursuing the Lord’s goals. This is expressed through living as God’s chosen people and embodying their identity as holy and loved. As believers aim for the things above, they become aware of the 'flesh-stained' garments that need to be discarded and recognize the importance of putting on the appropriate spiritual clothing.
Wear Compassion. Compassion is rooted in a heart-centered presence of mercy. This mercy compels us to recognize the suffering and pain others endure and motivates us to respond with sympathy and assistance. The aim is not just to address physical pain or problems but to promote genuine, holistic healing. Compassion demonstrates a profound love for others and is reflected in appropriate interactions.
Wear Kindness. The word kindness comes from describing the gentle attitude that develops with age, recognizing that harsh responses no longer fit. Kindness represents grace, encouraging us to extend that grace to others. It transforms simple acts of service into true ministry by turning physical responses into meaningful reflections of Jesus.
Wear Humility. In ancient culture, humility was often seen as a negative trait. The first-century society valued pride and self-promotion. However, humility involves understanding oneself correctly before the Lord. It is a response to self-love and self-focus. A genuine desire for humility stems from a proper view of the Lord. Believers should be cautious of false humility, which outwardly claims humility but actually nurtures pride.
Wear Gentleness. The word for gentleness is the same as meekness. It is best understood as strength that is kept under control. Gentleness is most evident when someone chooses to endure pain rather than cause it to others. When a believer suffers hurt from another Christian, their response should reflect the essence of gentleness—seeking restoration instead of harboring resentment or seeking retaliation.
Wear Patience. Patience stands as the opposite of resentment and bitterness. When believers adopt patience, they live with trust in the Lord and aim to grow closer to Him. Patience involves trusting the Lord to act in His perfect timing and to restore moments of brokenness. It is more about trusting the Lord than merely waiting. When we trust in Him, patience naturally follows, as every part of our lives is surrendered to His will and for His glory.
When reflecting on the spiritual attire of our lives, what message are we conveying to the world? Are they able to see Jesus through traits such as patience, gentleness, humility, compassion, and kindness? Or do our appearances show fleshly qualities like pride, resentment, retaliation, arrogance, and self-centeredness? Let us aim to wear the spiritual garments of Christ in our daily lives.
QUESTIONS
How does focusing and developing kindness in life help interaction with other believers and reflect Christ to the world?
How does the pursuit of patience aid in the ability to live in harmony with others and to grow in our faith with the Lord?
