Colossians 3:13 AMP
[13] bearing graciously with one another, and willingly forgiving each other if one has a cause for complaint against another; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so should you forgive.
Human relationships are complex. It is quite impossible to find relationships without some room for understanding and growth. You will not hit it off immediately, and there will be times when conflicts may arise. What you do at those critical moments will be defined by your identity, focus and inner content. This is why a look at the target audience of this message is important. The first few verses from where today's extract is taken from speaks to people who have been raised with Christ, and as a result, should have their hearts set on things above, where Christ, the one who was raised from the dead, is seated at the right hand of God. Men who know where they are located do not get bogged down by affections such as jealousy, hatred, bitterness or envy. They do not have the seed of evil in them anymore, because Christ has taken them with Him into the presence of His Father.
My life is now hid with Christ in God. That is the foundation of today's verse and the place to build anything of value. I believe the fundamental question then is to define and recognize my identity. Then and only then can I practice what the verse above demamds. The natural man seeks to promote self; the man subject to the Spirit seeks to promote whatever promotes God. The natural man seeks self-interest and self-preservation; the man subject to the Spirit seeks to live out the principles and practices of the kingdom to which he belongs. God has so done it that it is by my human relationships that the life of God can be appreciated. As I live on a daily basis, my walk and talk must show who I am, what I am and where I am headed. Forbearing and forgiving one another are signs that what binds us is greater and deeper than whatever may seek to divide us.
After all, the blood of Jesus did not make a distinction between races or gender, but the offer of life is made to all and sundry. The blood was offered full and free to all men, and the offer still stands till today for as many as will come to Jesus. His life is the perfect example of what love is, and how to see the best in people. He gave his life for the whole world, with no guarantee that His sacrifice will be appreciated or accepted. He did not do it to be applauded, but to give us all the opportunity to enjoy the benefits and blessings of forgiveness, and be able to extend the same grace to others. If I have received it, I have a duty to extend it to others. Let it not be that I end up selfish and bitter, not living out the full potential of the new life made possible by the death and resurrection of Jesus. He has done His part; what is my response? God's time of favour is here.
No comments:
Post a Comment