Colossians 3:12-13a
As kingdom builders, we are set apart for God’s purpose; therefore, we are commanded to walk worthy of our calling into His kingdom and glory (1Thess. 2:12). God deserves our loyalty and commanded that we have no other gods before Him. Therefore, set your minds on heavenly things, where Christ is. If our affection is on treasures we have stored up on earth, Scripture says that our hearts will be there also. In Colossians 3:12-13a Paul continued encouraging the church to “put on” Christian traits. He told them to put on meekness and longsuffering.
In meekness we are to conduct ourselves with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love” (Eph. 4:2). It begins within us when we surrender our self-righteousness to God and humbly accept His will. “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart…” (Matt. 11:29). We put up with others because God puts up with us. Yes, Believers, bear with one another in love. Jesus said to love our neighbor as we love ourselves. “So, let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up” (Gal. 6:9, NLT). Trust the Lord, knowing that He is your strength. He gives you the power to walk in tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness and longsuffering. Give God a hand clap of praise and shout, “Hallelujah!”