December 3, 2021
Scripture Resource Passage: Colossians 3
Life lived wide-open calls each disciple to affirm Christ’s lordship. “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3:15-17).
We ought not rush by these words. They emphasize how a disciple’s behavior is built on commitment to Christ as Lord, and the Spirit as indwelling counselor.
Families are, as we know, complicated. We are spiritual beings residing in our Father’s world; but, that fallen-separated world is a mess. How we live as families can provide positive examples or reasons to run away from God’s truth.
Being a 21st century family may leave us like Abraham of old. His family should have been among the happiest, most vibrant and spiritually enthusiastic groups to ever live on the planet. Yet, if we read the Genesis stories, his family struggles’ resemble an afternoon-television-soap opera. A later report comments that Abraham was as an individual looking for a city whose builder and maker is God, we understand (Hebrews 11:10).
Life Applications
What threatens to “disturb the peace,” within your family?
What behaviors enrich your life as an individual or family?
What lifestyle changes can you make to increase the practice of peace within your family?
On a scale of one (1) to ten (10), with one (1) being dissatisfied, how would you score your family’s level of peace?
Thank you for reading. I look forward to your comments and suggestions.
Grace and peace to each of you.
Dr. Andrew Simkins 