Filled with Christ

TODAY'S READING: Colossians 3:12-17
So many people look at Christianity as a behavior-based religion. In other words, there are a lot of people who determine whether or not you are a Christian by how you behave. Now, while I would agree that behavior is usually a pretty good indicator, it is not the essence of being a follower of the Christ.
In this section of his letter to the church in Colosse, Paul describes the behaviors of one who is following Jesus.
Tenderhearted mercy. Kindness. Humility. Gentleness. Patience. A willingness to forgive. Love. Peace. Thankfulness.
While these are all indicative of a Christ-follower, they are not what a Christ-follower is. The true heart of a Christian goes much deeper. And someone does not grow in devotion to Christ simply by acting "religious."
No matter how good of a performance someone may put on, the real them will eventually seep out. Or else he or she will spend a lifetime being miserable living in two worlds.
If we are going to truly be followers of Jesus, we must engage in what Paul talks about in verses sixteen and seventeen. First and foremost, the words of Christ must live in our hearts. That doesn't just happen by using our Bible as a table decoration or even as a reference book once or twice a week at church. We must invest time with Jesus. We must be willing to devote ourselves to getting to know Jesus better. Time in God's word must be a part of who we are and what we do. Not because Bible reading is a good thing for a Christian to do or because they tell you to do it at church. Rather, we must desire to get to know Jesus better and make the effort.
As the words of Christ become a part of who we are, we must include them in our daily conversations. God should not be something we only discuss in Bible class. Every aspect of our lives should be directed and influenced by the word of God. If there is a disagreement in your family, consider what the words of Christ have to say. When you are walking the halls at school, let the words of Christ direct you. In those moments when you are alone, let the words of Christ control your thoughts and action. In all situations, teach and encourage one another to live more like Jesus.
Paul's next piece of advice is to let spiritual music penetrate your heart. Music is one of the most powerful tools in shaping who we are. I believe that is why Paul writes about it both here and in Ephesians 5. In both cases he is writing about things that shape the innermost person. The music we listen to influences who we are more than we can imagine. So Paul's advice is simple. Be influenced by music that will mold you into Christ's image.
As he continues, Paul reminds us to always be thankful. So often we take things for granted and have very thankless attitudes. God calls us to be thankful in all circumstances and situations. When we have a thankful heart our outlook on life can change dramatically.
And the result of all these things is what Paul describes as being a representative of the Lord Jesus in all we say or do. When our hearts and minds are filled with and shaped by God, we cannot help but speak and act more and more like Him each day.
As you look at the behaviors in your life, ask yourself two questions. Am I being real or is this a show? And, If someone could strip away all of my masks, what kind of person am I on the inside? As you consider those questions, think about how much the word of Christ is filling your heart right now and whether or not He is really your Lord.

shine!
Jason