Whatever you do [no matter what it is] in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus [and in dependence on Him], giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Colossians 3:17 AMP
Context and Charge:
Paul, who wrote these words to the church in Colosse, would know what he was talking about here. Paul had also walked in ignorant zeal before, thinking he was offering service to God by killing people who did not hold on to Judaism in its pure form. His zeal, though awesome, was totally misdirected, but God in his mercy, took hold of him and turned his life around, giving him purpose and direction. All that Paul did after that encounter was about directed impact and guided influence. He was now totally submitted to God and was ready and willing to be used. This has to be the default setting for all who desire to make impact, God's way. You cannot insist on your own way, and then also seek to glorify God with your life. I cannot insist on my rights and privileges, and still want God to flow unhindered in and through me.
Those who bear the name of the Lord are called to act. live, speak and relate on a different standard from the rest of the world. Those who bear the name of the Lord cannot be careless about their affiliations, goals, pursuits and priorities. Everything I do reflects ownership and allegiance, and it will be the highest form of hypocrisy if my life profession does not match my mouth confession. Talk is cheap, as anyone can make whatever claim is convenient, but as I live my life from day to day, who I know becomes apparent from the way I live on a daily basis. Today's verse makes a reference to 'Whatever' I do. There are no time-outs when it comes to bearing the name of the Lord. You do not get to drop it when it is inconvenient, or because you want to quickly do what you know to be wrong and contrary to the demands of the name you claim to bear.
Conviction and Conclusion:
Doing things in the name of the Lord is being conscious of who you are and who you work for. The attitude must be right: I am working for a God of total knowledge, as well as the rewarder of all men who diligently seek him. He cannot be deceived by hypocrisy, eye-service or pretence. He made the heart, so all its motives and machinations are known to Him. It is a life of TOTAL dependence on God, with a heart of gratitude that appreciates what it has been given, and the promise of eternal life that lies at the end of faithful service. God does not lie; whatever His Word says is his covenant, and he has the capacity, capability and competence to bring to completion whatever it is he commenced. I must make sure that whatever I embark on has his backing. God's time of favour is here.
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