How can we reflect Christ's life in our actions and decisions today? Christ Our Life: The Foundation • Colossians 3:4 declares, “When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.” • Christ is not merely an influence; He is literally “your life.” Every choice flows from union with Him (Galatians 2:20). • Because Scripture is accurate and true in every detail, we take this identity as fact, not metaphor. Living in the Light of His Appearing • Colossians 3:4 roots present obedience in future glory. Knowing we will “appear with Him” gives present decisions eternal weight (1 John 3:2–3). • Hope of His return motivates holy living now (Titus 2:11-13). Setting Hearts and Minds Above Colossians 3:1-2 offers the immediate application: • “Strive for the things above, where Christ is seated.” • “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Practical steps: – Begin each day by reading a brief passage, letting heavenly truth frame earthly tasks. – Throughout the day, pause and realign thoughts with Philippians 4:8. – End the day rehearsing God’s faithfulness, cultivating gratitude over worry. Daily Decisions That Mirror Christ Speech • “Let your conversation be always full of grace” (Colossians 4:6). • Refuse gossip, sarcasm, and crude joking (Ephesians 4:29). Relationships • Forgive as the Lord forgave you (Colossians 3:13). • Pursue reconciliation quickly (Matthew 5:23-24). Integrity • Work “not only while being watched, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord” (Colossians 3:22-23). • Keep commitments even when costly (Psalm 15:4). Service • Imitate Christ by looking “not only to your own interests” (Philippians 2:4-5). • Use spiritual gifts to build up the body (1 Peter 4:10-11). Stewardship • Handle money as a trust, not a possession (Luke 16:10-13). • Give generously and secretly (Matthew 6:3-4). Suffering • Respond to hardship with patient endurance, remembering “our light and momentary troubles” produce eternal glory (2 Corinthians 4:17). Power Source: The Indwelling Spirit • Romans 8:11 promises resurrection power now. • John 15:4-5 reminds us that apart from Christ we can do nothing. Practical habits: – Begin tasks with a quick acknowledgment, “Lord, work through me.” – Memorize Scripture; the Spirit uses it to guide decisions (John 14:26). – Keep short accounts—confess sin immediately (1 John 1:9) to maintain unhindered fellowship. Reflecting Together • We “reflect the glory of the Lord” more clearly in community (2 Corinthians 3:18). • Regular worship, accountability, and mutual encouragement (Hebrews 10:24-25) sharpen Christlikeness. • Seek older believers as models (1 Corinthians 11:1) and become a model for younger saints (2 Timothy 2:2). Final Encouragement Because Christ is literally our life and will soon appear, every ordinary moment becomes a stage for His glory. Lean on His Word, depend on His Spirit, and let each decision—big or small—echo the life of the One who lives in you. |
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