Meeting 3/28/20
Col. 2:1-7.
Paul has such a selfless attitude, it's humbling, convicting, and inspiring. That's so rare these days. I wonder if we can somehow follow his example. He really has the heart of God and wants His people to understand the amazing grace of the gospel story. He wants us to be encouraged in heart and united in love. He wants us to truly know Christ, as a close friend, Father, and Savior. He wants us to have a real, intimate relationship with Jesus. That's really the most important thing in life. We just get selfishly sidetracked way too often.
Need wisdom? Need knowledge? Jesus is your source. Ask Him. Listen for His answer and guidance. You may have to quiet the noise though and closely listen for a whisper. The noise of this world and our flesh can easily drown out His voice. We have to authentically want it.
You see, there are many voices out there. Some, very noble in intention, others, not so much. Some sound so convincing and reasonable, they're enticing! But God is teaching me to be careful with my own understanding. I'm to trust Him with all my heart and lean not on my own understanding. I'm to seek the Spirit to help me understand and know His will.
I think of our kids in the next verses of "being absent from you in body...delight to see how disciplined you are and how firm your faith in Christ is..." Isn't that what parents want to see and know about their children-that they are disciplined and firm in their faith? Well, what about the other way around? How impactful is it for our children to see their parents as disciplined and firm in their faith? Come on, friends. We cannot afford to be complacent about this. Their souls are at stake here. They deserve to witness our discipleship and relationship with the Lord.
The conclusion of this passage is an imperative command. We saved Christians are ordered to continue to live our lives in Jesus Christ, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as we were taught, and overflow with thankfulness. Boom. Drop the mic. I love it! The reference is likened to a plant or tree, with roots sinking deep into solid ground, continually wicking up life-nourishing fuel. The plant grows, matures, and is strengthened over time. It has an attitude of gratitude that reaches the throne of heaven. It's fully alive, fully being all it was made to be, for the glory of the King. Isn't He brilliant?
