Clothe Yourself
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” (Colossians 3:12, NIV)
This week students, faculty and staff at Southern Adventist University have been gathering each night for Student Week of Prayer. From the heartfelt responses of students, the presence of the Holy Spirit has been evident as students have led in song, prayer and preaching centered around the theme of clothing ourselves with the character of Christ based on Colossians 3:12.
In this verse, Paul reminds believers that even though God originally chose the nation of Israel to be His people, being chosen in Christ is not based on what they are ethnically but whose they are spiritually. The believers in Colossae are to consider themselves holy and dearly loved by God, practicing virtues that are countercultural to the world around them.
Today, many accomplished athletes sign lucrative sports deals with well-known companies. Basketball Hall of Famer Michael Jordan has made over $1 billion from his deal with Nike (that is nine zeros.) Large companies have famous athletes wear their shoes, clothing, gloves, and hats. What is the goal? To have their chosen athlete covered by their brand from head-to-toe.
As God’s chosen, Paul urges us to dress "head-to-toe" in Christ's wardrobe. His clothes are made of the finest materials known as compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Ellen White writes, “The Saviour longs to save the young. He would rejoice to see them around His throne, clothed in the spotless robes of His righteousness.”
Reflect
In what ways are you clothing yourself with the characteristics of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience?
In what ways do you fall short in putting on the character of Christ?
If you were totally honest with yourself, are you more concerned about what you wear outwardly than how you clothe yourself inwardly? Genuinely talk to God about the things you wish you could understand about being more like Christ.
Ellen Gould White, God’s Amazing Grace (Review and Herald Publishing Association, 1973), 287.
