Put Them Away
8 But now, put away all the following: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and filthy language from your mouth. 9 Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old self with its practices
Colossians 3:8-9 (CSB)
Paul instructs the Colossians to discard the sinful behaviors of their old selves, such as anger and lying. This call to abandon these actions urges believers to adopt new behaviors and values rooted in their new life in Christ. Paul encourages believers to examine their behaviors and attitudes, challenging us to abandon old habits and develop Christ-like character daily.
Get Rid of the Poison. Paul urges the Colossians and believers today to identify unhealthy patterns of their old selves. Recognizing these patterns prepares them to remove what is harmful. He instructs believers to “put away” these negative traits, meaning to set them aside completely and avoid returning to them. Paul understands that such actions are like poison to the soul; even a small amount can spark a desire to repeat them. Therefore, to put these away is to leave them behind and not pick them up again.
By shedding the old self and its traits, we create space for spiritual growth. The old self hinders progress by blocking our pursuit of the Lord. Removing these barriers allows the soul to grow and mature alongside Jesus. Therefore, freeing ourselves from the poison of sin fosters a posture conducive to spiritual development.
Create New Habits. The fleshly desires can hinder our ability to live for the Lord, grow spiritually, fellowship with others, and fulfill our role in expanding God’s kingdom. Letting go of the old self’s marks allows us to form new, healthy spiritual habits that encourage faithfulness, fellowship, and fruitfulness. These new habits replace the old ways of life. As we develop these habits, they start to influence and direct our lives, making us more like the Lord.
Just as a garden requires weeding for healthy plants, our spiritual lives need the removal of sin to thrive like a well-rooted plant in Christ. The process of weed removal can be challenging, but it ultimately leads to a healthier, more abundant harvest.
QUESTIONS
What habits of the old self can you identify as needing to be put away?
How would you judge the preence of weeds in your life and the spiritual health of your life?
