Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.

Colossians 3:12-15

Dear God, I want to focus on these two verses: “Above all, clothe yourself in love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony…For as members of one body you are called to live in peace.”

What does it really look like to clothe myself in love? First, I can’t REALLY do it without being submitted to and in relationship with you. If I’m not with you then my heart turns selfish and dark. If I’m not examining myself, seeking out my own sin and then repenting of it, then I’m not going to have as much latitude for the sins of others.

Second, I just have to stop and have some empathy for people. The more I try to see the world from someone else’s perspective the more I am able to have compassion for their actions. The vast majority of people see themselves as good and making good decisions. For them, if they aren’t, it isn’t as much on purpose as it is a result of a brokenness in their lives. I know that’s how it seems to work for me.

Finally, there’s my own conscious decision to apply these principles. This is where I am too selective in my application of love. I still judge too much.

Father, I want to clothe myself in love. I want to be a creator of your body and not a destroyer of your body. Help me to be mindful of loving others and give me your courage and strength as I become closer to you.

In Jesus’ name I pray,

Amen