September 29-October 5, 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 Themes: Chosen, Holy, Loved
Prayer Prompts
Day 1: Think about a time when you were “least-chosen.” What did it feel like. How would you describe the rejected feelings? Turn that into a prayer, thanking God for choosing you.
Day 2: God’s holiness is given to us at salvation. We receive it as a gift from Christ’s death on the cross. But, we often struggle to believe in our forgiveness…thinking we can’t possibly be holy. What does God say about our holiness in the Bible? Do a word search at Biblehub.com. Find other verses about Christ’s holiness. Pray after your review. Thank God for the gift of His righteousness.
Day 3: You are dearly loved. Read 1 John 3:1. Write it out in your own words as a prayer.
Day 4: You are dearly loved. If God were to write you a letter of His love for you, what would it say?
Day 5: You are dearly loved. Write a prayer poem about God’s love for you.
Challenge: This week, spend some time alone, reflecting in nature - sit by a stream, walk on a wooded path, or sit near a patch of flowers. Remember the truth about your chosen-ness, His holiness resting upon you, and your belief in His love for you. Don't do anything. Just be.
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.