Have you ever stopped to think what people should see when they look at us Christians? Colossians 3:12-17 is a good place to find the answer; we encourage you to study these few verses. Let’s summarize what we can see. We are to be holy, that is to be set apart for God, blameless and pure. Our lives should show tender, heartfelt mercy and compassion for others, just as God does for us. Kindness or a desire to do good to others, should characterize Christians, even if people try our patience.

We are to walk in humility, that is to be humble minded, realizing we are nothing without God and that all we are is because of Him. Meekness is listed next in our verses. A meek person has their strength and emotions under control, they are mild and gentle but most importantly, submitted to God’s teaching. We are also called to be longsuffering and patient, bearing with one another. A paramount character trait of Christians is forgiveness, we are also to walk in God’s unconditional love and His peace. God’s peace is best described as perfect well-being. We must have thankful hearts and God’s word should be a major focus in our lives, something that dominates our conversation and interactions. Our lives, all that we do and say, should reflect God’s grace. God’s grace is His unmerited favour and goodwill.

Finally, we are to: “do all in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Col 3:17; NKJV). Wow! That is a tall order you may say, but God is patient and we “can do all things through Christ who strengthens” us (Phil 4:13; NKJV). Let’s all commit to be open to fulfill Colossians 3:12-17. What a church we will be.