​Week 25, Day 5

​Week 25, Day 5
June 24, 2022
Scripture: Colossians 3
 
“Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.” (Colossians 3:1–3)
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” (Colossians 3:12)
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” (Colossians 3:23–24)
It can be difficult to set our mind on things above. Just in reading that, you’ve already thought of five different things you need to be doing right now. Or perhaps you’ve set your mind on all the earthly struggles that you are presently facing. It wasn’t nice that I even mentioned it!
But take a deep breath and focus now on this: “For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.”
You died.
You have been raised.
This is your life in Christ.
Imagine now, all the things that died in the old life we used to live. The troubles that we face, the struggles of having enough, being enough, doing enough… they died.
The sinful past that we lived, filled with evil and idolatry – all the things that we chased…died.
What is left is this new life. We are dearly loved and chosen. You are clothed in kindness, compassion, gentleness, these things are from above. Because I have died and now live in Christ, it is not so daunting now to consider the life from above. 
How wonderful it is that I may consider Christ and his compassion today! How now might I live my new life today with the gentle reminder of his grace and the new life that I share in him.
I have died, but I am raised to new life. Say that to yourself a few times. I have died, but I am raised to new life.
What sorrow melts away? What pressures from the world? IS there peace for you in this?
Think upon our King Jesus reigning from heaven today. He has chosen you and made you his.
Serve Christ today, in all grace, compassion and mercy. God is with you and loves you.
You have died, and now live in Christ.