How can you apply Colossians 3:7 to daily decision-making? Framing the Verse “When you lived among them, you also used to walk in these ways.” (Colossians 3:7) What the Spirit Reminds Us Here • Past tense—“used to walk”: a clear line separates who we were from who we are now. • “Among them”: we once shared the world’s mindset; we no longer take our cues from it. • Context (vv. 5–6): the list of sins Paul just named—sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, greed—are not options for a redeemed life. A Gospel Grid for Every Choice 1. Recall Identity • 2 Corinthians 5:17—new creation. • Romans 6:11—“count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God.” • Decision filter: “Does this fit a resurrected life, or my old one?” 2. Recognize Environment • John 17:14–16—we are “in” but not “of” the world. • When coworkers, media, or friends normalize sin, remember Colossians 3:7: that used to be me, but no longer. 3. Reject Old Paths • Ephesians 4:22—“put off” the former way of life. • Practical test: If a choice feels like a replay of pre-Christ habits, stop. 4. Replace with Spirit-Led Action • Galatians 5:16—walk by the Spirit and you will not gratify the flesh. • Ask: “What fruit of the Spirit can I pursue here instead?” Putting It into the Rhythm of a Day • Morning planning – List likely pressure points (scrolling, conversations, spending). – Pair each with a consciously new-life response. • Mid-day checkpoints – Quick prayerful scan: “Am I walking as I once did, or as I now am?” – If drifted, repent immediately; Romans 6:12—“do not let sin reign.” • Evening review – Celebrate victories; 1 Thessalonians 5:18—give thanks in all things. – Note any “old-self” lapses, confess (1 John 1:9), and plan alternative actions. Real-World Snapshots • Media choice: Before clicking, ask, “Would this have appealed to my old cravings?” If yes, choose content that builds purity (Philippians 4:8). • Financial decision: Greed once drove me (Colossians 3:5); now generosity reflects my new nature (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Conflict at work: Old self vents; new self practices gracious speech (Colossians 4:6). • Dating boundary: Former life excused impurity; new life honors holiness (1 Peter 1:15). One Verse, Ongoing Momentum Keep Colossians 3:7 on a card or phone lock screen. Each time a decision surfaces, let the Holy Spirit whisper: “That was you. This is now. Choose accordingly.” |
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