WEEK 28, Day 1, Monday, 4 July 2021

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Observations from today’s readings and today’s S-WOD, Monday, 4 July 21:

Colossians 3:15 — And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.

Colossians 3 lists many negative attributes Christians should “put to death” or “put away” and many positive attributes Christians should “put on,” having been raised to new life in Christ. As the above verse points out, what rules in your heart will determine your behavior. The secret to a life of peace and purity is knowing Jesus and letting Him rule your heart.

• Ephesians 1:17-18 — …that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints,
• 2 Peter 3:18 — But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.

As we grow in the knowledge of Christ and more fully appreciate the immeasurable riches of His grace, the more peacefulness and thankfulness will fill our hearts, and the natural result will be greater compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, patience, and forgiveness poured out to others (Colossians 3:12-13). When we are truly secure in Christ, we will not be defensive or resentful towards others because we trust God for our defense and provision (Colossians 3:24-25; see also John 19:11)

• Colossians 3:16 — Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.

To grow in the knowledge of Christ, we must remain in God’s word and remain in fellowship with other believers. We must also practice an ‘attitude of gratitude,’ praising God and worshiping Him with songs and hymns.

• Colossians 3:17 — And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

When you truly see yourself as Christ’s ambassador in every encounter with others, and when you publicly vocalize your faith in Him before others, you will naturally avoid “anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk (Colossians 3:8),” as being clearly out of place, hypocritical, and disrespectful to the Lord. Proclaiming Jesus not only brings glory to God, it also helps you to hold yourself accountable. Try it and see.

“Cross” Fit S-WOD (Spiritual Workout of the Day) – 4 July 21: Grow in the love of Christ today by growing in your knowledge of Christ today, through prayerful Bible study, fellowship, ministry, worship, and evangelism.