October 6-12, 2024
This month we will focus on Colossians 3:12. I’m reading Kelly Minter’s book called Fitting Room. The entire book is about this one verse. She reminds us in the first chapter that the virtues from this verse are God given. We don’t have to work to attain them. We get them as a result of being a child of God. The verse from 3:12 reads: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” Over the next 5 weeks, we will focus on this one verse - drawing from cross references in the Bible to confirm themes, definitions, and applications. I already had a chance to experience the passage through a situation last Sunday. I was sitting in church talking to a woman when a mom and child approached to interrupt. The mom explained that her child just needed a quick hug from me as she saw me across the room and was relentlessly asking her mom if she could have a quick visit with me. I was delighted. When I stood up, the little girl said, “No mommy, not her, HER!,” as she pointed to the woman across from me. I sat back down feeling a bit dejected. God had a redemption plan. He wanted to show me how CHOSEN I really am. Afterwards, I realized how much I could trust Him in choosing me. Just a few moments apart from the little girl exclaiming that she didn't want me at all, a friend’s child came over, wrapped her arms about my neck from behind, and said, “Good morning, Ms. Michele!!!” I cannot tell you how loved that hug made me feel in that moment. I think I would have taken it for granted if I had not been “unchosen” a moment before. God chooses us again, and again, and again. If you have not yet studied these virtues from Colossians 3, you are in for an enlightening experience. Join us for the journey.
This week's Bible reading: Colossians 3:12
Focus Theme: Clothing yourself with virtue
Prayer Prompts
Day 1: Most of us get dressed every day without thinking about “putting on” our clothes (other than picking out a style.) Recently, I hurt my shoulder and couldn’t dress without pain. Imagine having to put on the virtues of God each day in our own strength. Thank God for making it easy - He does it for us!
Day 2: What does taking the effort off of us “dressing ourselves” do for our freedom? How does that feel?
Day 3: What was it like when you were a child? Did kids in your family and school naturally have “virtue?”
Day 4: Scripture makes it clear that virtue is sought-after and should be pursued. God is completely good and sets the example for us. How do you see His virtue in the everyday life?
Day 5: What do you need to “take off” that is not serving you in a virtuous way? Identify and confess it to God and a friend who you trust.
Challenge: Ask God to help you remove what hinders you - donate that to the giveaway pile!
Prayer Prompts and Bible Readings are provided by Michele Bowden and Lisa Brass, Coaches and Digital Missioners with Visual Faith™ Ministry. Find them on our Creative Devotion page, on Instagram @victoryinart and @aworthylif, and on the web at victoryinart.com.