Mar 4 - Colossians 3:16

Let the word of Christ

dwell in you richly

Colossians 3:16

NRSV

 

When a young couple begins considering a life together, they start making plans for their first home.

 

·         Where will we live?

·         How will we decorate?

·         What China pattern and appliances do we register for?

·         If they’ve both been out on their own for a while, they’ll even ask, “Whose couch will we keep?”

 

Where we dwell is a huge (and usually fun) question at the beginning of our lives together. But Colossians 3:16 reminds us of a greater priority. It says that it’s not where we dwell that’s of utmost importance; rather, it’s about what dwells within us!

 

The Apostle Paul encourages us to let “the word of Christ dwell in you richly.” “Richly” means that God’s word, truth, and priorities ought to be our greatest treasure.

 

Why? Because you need a road map for navigating the increasingly tricky roads of life, and God’s word is a lamp unto our feet.

 

Why? Because when disagreements happen – and they will – you need an authority greater than “he said” and “she thinks.” God’s word links us to an authority greater than me and you.

 

Why? Because God’s word is full of wisdom ... and you’re not! (At least not as much as you think you are!)

 

Why? Because God’s word is a power cord, and we only receive power to help us in times of need when attach ourselves to God.

 

Why? Because God’s word teaches us to forgive. Forgiveness was the whole point of Jesus’ coming to earth; therefore, it is arguably the most important thing on earth. Jesus, though, is the only true model of this life-giving power that there is ... and he’s the only one who can empower us to forgive! (And because forgiveness is needed daily in marriage, believe me, we need the power of God through his word!)

 

Question of the Day: Are you more spending more energy on where you dwell … or what dwells in you? Why do you think this is?

 

In Christ’s Love,

a guy who needs

something bigger than me

to do anything as big as marriage

... and the Bible is the most tangible gift

that God has given us

to attach ourselves to his power