Superior Word Daily Devotional Study in Colossians

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily BIble  Verse, Colossians 2:23, 2 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, MAY 2, 2017

Tuesday, 2 May 2017



These things indeed have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion, false humility, and neglect of the body, but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh. Colossians 2:23



“These things” refers to what Paul has been speaking of in the previous verses – things like circumcision verses uncircumcision, partaking or not partaking in certain foods, participating in certain religious festivals, worshipping angels, and so on. He lumps them into this one thought and says, “These things indeed have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion.”



People who participate in dietary restrictions, for example, seem to be more pious than others. Ascetics look at their self-denial as leading them to a state of holiness. The observance of religious festivals certainly attracts attention. Those who participate in them appear to be observing them in order to be more holy. And so forth. But is a person more holy by not eating pork or by observing a Passover Seder? No! Christ fulfilled these things. By placing one’s faith in Christ, they skip over the shadow and obtain the substance of what the shadow only pointed to.



Why put a beanie cap on your head when praying if you were never a Jew in the first place? Such is “false humility.” In the end, it doesn’t add to personal holiness at all. The “neglect of the body” is specifically speaking of ascetic practices that he had just referred to – “Do not touch, do not taste, do not handle.” But again, such things are, as he says, “of no value against the indulgence of the flesh.”



In the end, these things which are seemingly pious are actually prideful. They are “works to impress” God, but God does not need to be impressed. He came out of His eternal realm, donned garments of flesh, and fulfilled everything necessary to reconcile fallen man back to Himself. What God looks for is faith in that, not in self. An attitude of self-righteousness is completely opposed to trusting in Christ for imputed righteousness.



Paul’s words are clear and direct, and they ask us to put away externals as a means of seeking God’s favor. We are to be purified in our hearts, filled with faith in His provision, and trusting in His ability to complete our salvation to lead us back to Himself.



Life-application: As always, the Bible shows us that faith in what God has done, is doing, and will do is that which is pleasing to Him. When we put aside faith, and begin trusting in our own actions to merit His favor, or to increase our standing before Him, we are saying that we don’t need Him. “It’s OK God, I can handle it from this point on.” This is why, even after salvation, we are to continue to trust Him for our walk towards holiness. As Paul says in Galatians 3:2-4 – “This only I want to learn from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? 3 Are you so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made perfect by the flesh? 4 Have you suffered so many things in vain—if indeed it was in vain?” Hold fast to Christ, and Christ alone!



O God! It is such a relief to know that our salvation is a gift which cannot be earned, and that our continued walk with You is also something we can leave in Your capable hands. We don’t need to observe Old Testament feasts, cling to its dietary restrictions, or trust in other observances of the law in order to please You. Instead, those things were only shadows of the reality found in Christ. Faith in Him is what brings us to the sweet spot. And how sweet it is! Thank You for this wonderful means of complete reconciliation with You! Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:1, 3 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, MAY 3, 2017

Wednesday, 3 May 2017



If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Colossians 3:1



Starting in verse 2:11, Paul began his explanation of what it means to have died with Christ. He explained what that means in relation to the law, what that means for us in our daily lives, and how to avoid being trapped by those who look at Christ’s death as being insufficient for their passage to heaven. He carefully explained that it is all-sufficient, and that we are freed from the basic principles of the world.



Now, at the beginning of chapter 3, he moves from what the death of Christ means to us, and he focuses on what it means to be raised with Him. He begins with, “If then you were raised with Christ…” In verse 2:12, Paul said that we were “buried with Him in baptism,” and he then said that we “were raised with Him through faith.” The explanation of what being buried with Him means is done, and now he explains what being raised with Him means.



The word “if” is not one of doubt, but one of certainty. Just as a believer in Christ is united with Him in His death where they became dead to sin, and also dead to the basic principles of the world, then being raised with Him should bring the believer to a new state. Christ wasn’t just raised to eternal life to live out an earthly life. Instead, He was resurrected to eternal life as the Lord of heaven and earth. In this state, He ascended to the Father with all authority and power in His possession. As He is now in heaven, then we who have been raised with Him are to “seek those things which are above.”



This statement is well-explained by Paul in Philippians 3:12-21. We are to forget that which is behind (our earthly existence which died with Christ), and instead reach forward to those things which are ahead (our anticipated heavenly existence where Christ now is). This is what it means to seek those things which are above. It is to look to our heavenly home “where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.”



Of what value is it to fix our eyes, our hopes, and our attentions on what we have died to? It makes as much sense as watering flowers in a rain storm to go back to observing the law, feasts, dietary restrictions, and etc. Instead, we are to fix our eyes on Jesus who has overcome all of these things. Our hopes and hearts should be directed to spiritual growth and maturity in preparation for an eternity of dwelling with Him.



Life application: We are dead to the basic principles of the world. We are not bound to laws which bring only a reminder of sin, but instead we are alive in Christ. He has freed us from this body of death, and He has raised us to sit with Him in the heavenly places. As this is so, then why would we look back to the earthly, carnal life we once lived? We came to Christ to get away from that, not continue wallowing in it.



Heavenly Father, it is with great hopes that we await the coming of Christ to take us home. Until that day arrives, grant us the wisdom to seek those things which are above. Help us to look to our heavenly dwelling where Christ rules in righteousness, and to hunger after this at all times. May we never look back to the life which we died to, but instead be attentive to that life we have been raised to; a life where all power, honor, and glory radiate from You through our Lord Jesus! Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:2, 4 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017

Thursday, 4 May 2017



Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. Colossians 3:2



Paul now builds upon the words of the previous verse. He just said, “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.” Because of this, he implores those in Colossae (and thus us!) to “set your mind on things above.”



The Greek word translated as “set your mind” is an interesting one. It is phronéō. This in turn comes from phrḗn, which is the midriff or diaphram; the parts around the heart. Thus it carries the idea of regulating from within, as in an inner perspective which then is displayed in an outward behavior. This may seem difficult to grasp because it combines the visceral organs with cognitive aspects of thinking, but we do this with other body parts quite often. If we say, “my heart will be with you,” we are simply using the heart instead of these other organs to show where our affections are.



Paul is exhorting his readers to have their thoughts directed to heavenly things instead of those “things on the earth.” We have died to the things of the world, and so our hearts should be oriented to where we have been raised to instead. As the scholar Lightfoot says, “You must not only seek heaven; you must think heaven.”



Life application: Do not let the world drag you out of your heavenly home. If you have been raised with Christ, then live for Christ.



Lord God, You precious word tells us that we have been crucified with Christ. We have been buried with Him in baptism, and we have been raised with Him, being seated in the heavenly places in Christ. As this is so, why should we allow this fallen, dirty world to drag us out of our heavenly home? Grant us the wisdom to understand that there is nothing here but loss, and to set our affections on the things which are above. Help us to anticipate the day when Christ comes to take us home, and to live now with that hope in mind. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:3, 5 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, MAY 5, 2017

Friday, 5 May 2017



For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. Colossians 3:3



“For you died” is correct. Some older versions say, “For you are dead.” Without an accompanying explanation, that makes no sense. A dead person cannot read or respond to a letter. But for someone who has died, there can be the possibility of something new involved in that dying. The verb is in the aorist tense, and it denotes “death accomplished.” This is what Paul is now conveying. It builds upon what he said in Colossians 2:20 –



“Therefore, if you died with Christ from the basic principles of the world,”



There was a death “to the basic principles of the world which now results in something new. Paul explains that with the words, “and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” Jesus literally died. As the fulfillment of the law, the law died with Him. It was nailed to the cross (verse 2:14). But we also died with Him to the law. In His resurrection (a literal, bodily resurrection), our lives are now hidden with Him in God. The word “hid” is in the perfect tense. It is hidden once and forever. Thus the “life” is a continuous fact. In essence, “Your life was hidden, it is hidden, and it will remain hidden forever.” There is assurance in the salvation of Jesus Christ, not doubt.



As Jesus said in Matthew 22:32, “God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.” As we spiritually died to the basic principles of the world, the world has no dominion over us. But as we are alive to Christ, we are hidden with Christ in God. In other words, we are spiritually alive, and we are kept safe in Christ – who can never die again – and therefore, we are eternally alive with Him in this mystical union which is “in God.” As Christ is eternally in the Father, and as we are eternally in Christ, we are thus eternally in God. The fellowship is complete, and it is eternal.



Life application: Words have meaning. Paul writes in specific tenses in order to fully explain what has occurred for the believer in Christ. There is to be no doubt concerning our continued salvation. When we err, let us speak to the Lord about it and move on. He has saved us, and we are saved. Hallelujah to Christ Jesus who has delivered us from the body of death, which is the law!



Heavenly Father, Your word shows that one who is saved can never lose that gift. We have died to the basic principles of the world, and our lives are hidden with Christ in You. As Christ is in You forever, and as we are hidden in Him forever, then we can be certain that we are forever reconciled to You. The pressure is off! The burden is lifted! We have peace and reconciliation once again! Thank You, O heavenly Father, for Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:4, 9 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, MAY 6, 2017

Saturday, 6 May 2017



When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory. Colossians 3:4



This concluding thought of the section corresponds very closely to the closing thought of the corresponding section found in Philippians. In Philippians 3:21 it says -

“…who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body…”



Paul is careful to remind his audience that our living for heaven now is not a futile endeavor, but it is an anticipatory state of that which lies ahead. As we are destined for glory, we are reminded how important it is to set our minds on things above now. Anything which detracts from our full and focused attention on what we already possess through the work of Christ will lead to a loss of rewards when our glorified state is realized. And so he says, “When Christ who is our life appears.” It is not that our life is with Christ; bur rather is is that Christ is our life. This is confirmed by the words of John 1:4 -



“In Him was life, and the life was the light of men.”



Christ was manifested in the flesh and completed His work. Upon completion of that, He ascended into heaven where we await his coming again. He will manifest Himself again at a specific time, known but to God, and when that time comes then His redeemed “will appear with Him in glory.” The day is yet ahead, the circumstances of what will occur on that day are partially referred to elsewhere, but what we shall be like on that day is not known. Paul tells us this in 1 Corinthians 15, and John tells us this as well –



“Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.” 1 John 3:2



As a point of doctrine: Paul tells us that Christ will appear (literally “shall be manifested”). This verse presupposes the thought that there is one specific time that He will come and manifest Himself to His people, not before. Therefore, it is not only unwise, but it is against the words of Scripture to accept any supposed vision of Christ before that day. Dreams of visits to heaven (or hell), visions of Jesus, etc. are to be rejected.



Life application: As we are set on a heavenly course which is guaranteed to come about, should we not endeavor to live as if this is so now? Let us not spend our time foolishly, but instead let us set our minds on things above, and live lives which are pleasing to God, just as we will be when we are forever glorified.



How good You are most gracious heavenly Father. You have granted us a guarantee of eternal life through the shed blood of Christ. And Your word now asks us to set our mind on heavenly things in anticipation of that day when we will be glorified. Give us the wisdom to do this, and to live lives which are pleasing to You as we await our glorification on that wondrous day! Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:5, 7 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, MAY 7, 2017

Sunday, 7 May 2017



Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Colossians 3:5



Paul begins this verse with “Therefore” in order for the reader to consider what he has just said. He has been speaking of our state in Christ. We died with Him and we were raised with Him. And so what does that mean for us when He appears in glory? We too shall appear with Him in glory. Because of this, he will now tell us what we should abstain from in verses 5-9. Then he will relay positive things that we should strive to do in verses 10-16. In these, we will put off the old man, and we will in turn put on the new man.



In order to put off the old man, he says to “put to death your members which are on the earth.” The word is nekroó, and it means “to view as a corpse,” and thus “to regard as dead.” We are to look at our bodily members as if they are dead, and then he lists those members. To be noted is that he makes no distinction between the bodily members, and what they accomplish. In other words, “fornication” is listed first as if it is a bodily member. The part of the body is being equated directly with the negative act it can commit. However, the same body parts that are listed can be used in a positive way as well, and so we are being given insights into how we are to conduct ourselves while still in this physical, corrupt body. We are to treat it as if it is already glorified.



As noted, the list begins with fornication. Fornication is sexual intimacy which is outside of the bonds of marriage.



Next is “uncleanness.” This is a general reference to life’s impurities, and anything that a man could pursue which would otherwise defile himself.



He then lists “passion.” This indicates strong emotions which are not directed by God, such as consuming lust.



After that are “evil desires.” Such desires are reflected in things like lewdness and the working of all uncleanness and greediness.



Coming next is “covetousness.” This is closely associated with fornication and uncleanness. It indicates a desire for more and more. It demonstrates eyes that are never satisfied with what they have, and an attitude which is insatiable towards self-gratification. Paul then explains covetousness by saying “which is idolatry.” The reason covetousness is described this way is because it dethrones the Lord from our hearts and souls. Instead, we take what our attention is directed to and place it upon a throne of our heart’s making.



Life application: In the Old Testament, as forbidden actions were given there was an accompanying penalty which was noted for the offense. Such is not the case in the New Testament. We have died to the law through Christ’s death. Therefore, our penalty is something that will be realized less in this earthly life than it will be in the next. A believer’s salvation is secured, but our rewards are based on the lives we live after that salvation. However, this doesn’t mean we won’t also suffer in this life if we do bad things. We may profit from a greedy heart by making millions, but we may also lose by getting fired from our job. Paul’s point is not what will happen in this life though, but in what will be reckoned to us in the next. Therefore, let us pursue Christ now, being obedient to the admonitions and exhortations we are provided with.



How glorious it is to consider Your ways, O God. You have given us such marvelous beauty in the world we live in. You have provided countless tastes to delight our senses. You have given us the ability to love and care for others. The list could go on and on, but just considering the things around us, how can we not praise You? How beautiful it is to consider Your ways, O God! Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:6, 8 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, MAY 8, 2017

Monday, 8 May 2017



Because of these things the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience, Colossians 3:6



Paul wrote of the wrath of God in Romans 1, explaining what brings it about. The things he mentions in verse 2 are a part of that process. It is because of participating in these things that the world is judged. And this judgment follows two distinct lines. The first is judgment in this world through diseases, conflicts which lead to physical harm or death, and the like. The second judgment is that of being cast for all eternity away from the presence of God. The Lake of Fire is the ultimate end for all “the sons of disobedience.”



As an apostle, Paul is showing us the importance of setting our minds on things above, living lives that are holy, and leading others who have not yet called on Christ to do so. Without Him, there is but one ultimate end for the souls of man. We can either be a Son of God through adoption, or remain a son of disobedience and be eternally separated from Him. The warnings of Scripture, to include the apostolic warnings (which are now recorded in the Bible), are given to direct us away from that which is harmful, and which brings about the wrath of God, and toward that which is pleasing to Him.



Life application: To ignore the warnings of Scripture can only lead to a sad end. There will be trials and pains in this life, and there will be either judgment and condemnation for non-believers, or a loss of rewards for believers. Stand firm on the word, and do not be deceived by vain things which are contrary to the word of God.



Lord God, Your word is often looked at as a book of heavy-handed rules which limit freedom and which steal joy. But this is the furthest thing from the truth. Instead of some type of bondage for disobedience which eventually leads to punishment and death, in it there is the freedom of living for You, and with no fear of that which brings condemnation. The rules in a society are given for the good of the people. How much more then is Your word given for the benefit of Your people! Thank You for the marvelous protections and safeties which Your word gives us. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:7, 9 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, MAY 9, 2017

Tuesday, 9 May 2017



…in which you yourselves once walked when you lived in them. Colossians 3:7

The words “in which” are referring to “these things” of verse 6. That in turn is referring to the list of things from verse 5 – “fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.” Paul notes that his readers (and certainly any who have come to Christ since his letter) “once walked” in them. It was their very conduct of life, and it was this for which the wrath of God would have come upon them.



He then finishes up the verse with “when you lived in them.” The verb is in the imperfect tense, and thus it more accurately reads, “when you were living in them.” Their walk in these things literally surrounded them. It was as if these sins were the very air they breathed. However, they had moved to Christ and so Paul exhorted them to put these things to death, rather than living in them. As Christ died for our sins, we are to die to sin and live for Christ.



Life application: Though there are many trials in this life, and temptations abound around us, we should endeavor to live holy lives. Let us stand firm in the fellowship of believers, stay close to the word of God, and not give the devil an inch. It is tough, but through Christ, we can prevail over these things.



Lord God, in our natural selves, we face many trials and temptations each day. But in Christ, and through His power, we are able to overcome them. Help us to stay close to You by keeping Your word in our heart, fixing our eyes on Jesus, and directing our thoughts to that which is good, pure, and holy. Help us in this so that we may be pleasing to You in all ways and at all times. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:8, 10 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2017

Wednesday, 10 May 2017



But now you yourselves are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth. Colossians 3:8



We have been told in verse 3:2 that we are to set our minds on things above, not on things of the earth. In order to accomplish this, Paul now gives exhortations which will help make this possible. The list is very similar to that given in Ephesians 4:31. He first says, “But now you yourselves are to put off all these.” As we are in Christ, God looks at us and sees Him. We are adorned with His garments of righteousness. Because of this, we are to “put off” things which are unbecoming of this most favorable garment of honor.



He begins with “anger.” It comes from a word indicating “to swell.” It “proceeds from an internal disposition which steadfastly opposes someone or something based on extended personal exposure, i.e. solidifying what the beholder considers wrong (unjust, evil)” (HELPS Word Studies).



Next he says “wrath.” This is a word which signifies “getting heated up” or “breathing violently.” It is a “passion-driven behavior, i.e. actions emerging out of strong impulses (intense emotion)” (HELPS Word Studies).



He then notes “malice.” This describes the underlying attitude of evil. It is inherent evil which is present, even if it is not seen in an outward expression. Those evil things which we harbor, even inside, need to be quenched as we walk in newness of life in the Spirit.



Following that is “blasphemy.” This is the Greek word blasphémia. It indicates abusive language, and thus blasphemy. It “‘switches’ right for wrong (wrong for right), i.e. calls what God disapproves, ‘right’ which ‘exchanges the truth of God for a lie’” (HELPS Word Studies).



Paul then warns against “filthy language.” The word he uses is unique to Scripture. It is more than filthy speech, and vile communication, but it includes foul-mouthed abuse. Such speech is to be put out of our mouths.



Life application: It is unbecoming of one clothed in Christ to wear garments of indecency. Let us strive to emulate the Lord, and not be likened to the fallen, depraved world around us.



Heavenly Father, Your word admonishes the follower of Christ to put away that which is profane, indecent, and vile. We have been clothed in the perfect righteousness of our Lord, and it makes no sense for us to again don garments of unrighteousness. Instead of filth, may we radiate out purity and holiness. We pray this to Your honor, and in hopes that we will not bring discredit upon Your glorious name. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:9, 11 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

Thursday, 11 May 2017



Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds, Colossians 3:9



These words here are also close to Paul’s thoughts from Ephesians 4:22-25 -



“…that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, 23 and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, 24 and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.

25 Therefore, putting away lying, ‘Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor,’ for we are members of one another.”



Paul is consistent in his words to his readers. Though the law is annulled in Christ, there are precepts which are repeated from the law which we are asked to comply with. This is because committing such offenses is contrary to our new life in Christ. One of God’s attributes is that of truthfulness. As we are to emulate Him, we are to be truthful in all we say; the old man has been put off. In the Greek it is an aorist verb. There is a set time when this occurred. As the old man is gone, and we are in Christ, it logically follows that we are saved one-time-for-all-time. This will continue to be seen in the next verses.



Therefore, going back and doing things which are past cannot result in a lack of salvation, but they can affect us negatively nonetheless. We can lose friendships, we can lose fellowship, and we can be imprisoned or even killed for doing wrong. And further, we will certainly lose eternal rewards for such things. Therefore, let us strive to emulate the Lord in all ways, and to be pleasing to God as we live out this life in Christ.



Life application: If we think lying will somehow get us ahead in life, or get us out of some type of fix we are in, we are making a wrong judgment about the action. Instead, we should consider what we say from the heavenly, not the earthly, perspective. In doing so, we will benefit from that which is truly of value.



Lord God, help us to realize that no matter what we gain in this life, if it was obtained apart from compliance with Your word, it is actually a point of loss. What good is gain now if we will lose rewards in what is true and eternal life? Help us to emulate the Lord Jesus, be desirous of pleasing You, and to live in Christ as pleasing instruments of Your grace and mercy. Help us in this, O God. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:10, 12 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, MAY 12, 2017

Friday, 12 May 2017



…and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him, Colossians 3:10



Paul just stated that the believer has “put off the old man with his deeds.” Now in contrast to that, he says that we “have put on the new man.” Jesus uses the same Greek words when speaking of the new wine being put into old wineskins, and the new piece of cloth being sewn onto an old garment. The word for old is a chronological word indicating something ancient. The word for new likewise suggests “new in time.” It is something that is now revealed which didn’t appear before. In other words, we have had a complete break from what we were.



Such a person then “is renewed.” The word is actually in the present tense and is more accurately translated as “is being renewed.” This word, rather than being “new in time,” gives the sense of “new in quality.” We have been made new, and therefore we are to be renewed, improving from moment to moment. The state of this renewal is to be “in knowledge.” There is an object which we are to focus on, and we are to grow in quality towards the knowledge of that object.



Paul then tells us what that object is by saying this should take place “according to the image of Him who created” us. We are to strive to be improved, from one stage to the next, until we bear the image of Christ. As our knowledge of Christ is, at this time, to be found solely in the Scriptures, then it means that we are to study that marvelous body of writings in order to become more like Him.



It would make no sense to put off the old man, as he said we have done in the last verse, and then to remain ignorant of what our transformation into the new man means. If that were the case, we would actually remain in the state of whatever knowledge we possess. Without gaining knowledge of Christ Jesus we would, by default, be new men possessing only an old knowledge. Unfortunately, this is the state of a large portion of saved believers. They receive Christ and they stagnate. They remain carnal in their thinking despite having been regenerated in their spiritual selves.



Peter gives instructions in how to avoid this pitfall in 2 Peter 1:2-9. Try reading those verses today and reflect on how you too can avoid falling into the pit of forgetfulness, even to the point that you forget you have been saved in the first place.



Life application: Each of us is individually responsible for his own walk in the Lord. Are we going to move forward, seeking to know Him more and more each day? Or, are we going to stagnate and face life’s trials with all of the uncertainties that the unregenerate world faces? Let us endeavor to live for the Lord now, grow in Him daily, and be pleasing to Him when we stand before Him at the judgment seat of Christ.



Lord God, for those who have called on Christ, we have been given a new nature, youthful in regards to what we once were. Now help us to use that new vigor to renew ourselves into a higher quality of life, from stage to stage growing in a greater knowledge of You. And as this is the purpose of giving us Your wonderful word, help us to study it and apply its precepts to our lives. And thank You for being with us in the process. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:11, 13 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, MAY 13, 2017

Saturday, 13 May 2017



…where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave nor free, but Christ is all and in all. Colossians 3:11



Paul, still showing remarkable consistency with his other letters, now gives a verse reminiscent of Galatians 3:28 -



“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”



Like in Galatia, he here explains the universality of the Gospel message. He begins with, “there is neither Greek nor Jew.” The words are in opposite order to those written to Galatia. In Galatia, there was an insipid infection of believing that the Judaizers were more spiritual than those in Galatia. The Judaizers forced their adherence to the Old Testament on the Gentile believers, and those Gentiles swallowed it up. This was less problematic in Colossae, and so he says “Greek nor Jew.” The Gentiles were on the same level as the Jews.



As distinctions go, this is where the greatest of all lay in the mind of the Jews. They were on one side; the Gentiles were on the other. The term “Greek” here is being applied to any non-Jew. Because of the conquests of Alexander, the Greek culture, influence, and language had permeated the known world. Within that sphere, the Jews remained Jews though. In order to then show that this distinction was now void, he begins his list with this. To the Colossians, it was an admonishment that they were not to look to the Jews for their doctrine, but to God. They were not to insert the false teachings of the Judaizers, but to submerse themselves in the truth of the gospel.



He then further defines this category by saying, “circumcised nor uncircumcised.” The addition is not unnecessary. One could say, “Being a Jew may not be a big distinction anymore, but being circumcised is.” Paul spent a great deal of time on the issue of circumcision in Galatians, but he has not done so in this letter. Therefore, he is noting simply and directly that the rite of physical circumcision means nothing.



His next words say “barbarian, Scythian, slave nor free.” The barbarian is an uncultured person. In comparison to others, he is uncivilized, unpolished, and looked at as contemptible. In the world at large, such a person would be considered less notable, but in Christ, all are on the same level. This also included the Scythian. This is the only time the Scythian is noted in the New Testament.



They were those people who lived on the north and northeast coast of the Black and Caspian seas. This region extended well into Asia. It included the lands of the Mongols and Turks of our more modern age. They were considered a savage people, and were uncivilized and ferocious. However, even such seeming enemies of the cultured areas of Paul’s evangelism were to be considered on the same level if they were in Christ.



Paul finishes the list with, “slave nor free.” The free people of the Roman Empire were considered on a completely different level than the slaves. This distinction was so great that Paul’s words here could hardly be imagined by either class when considering the other. But once in Christ, the distinctions were removed. The letter of Philemon gives important insights into this.



After the list, Paul then finishes with, “…but Christ is all in all.” The presence of Christ in a believer is all that matters. In Him, all distinctions are swept away, and all are on an equal playing field. We cannot hold grudges against race, creed, culture, ethnicity, etc. by saying that they are not deserving of Christ. All are, and all are welcome.



It is of note that Paul does not include “male nor female” here in his letter to the Colossians. This may have been considered a problem in Galatia, and so Paul addressed it to ensure that that it was understood that women were on an equal footing concerning salvation. However, in the Greek culture, this was not a problem. In fact, including them could cause the possibility of the growth of licentiousness. The attitude of men towards women might jump to an unintended extreme. Therefore, Paul simply left the matter unstated.



Understanding these things, his words of this verse actually imply that these distinctions still exist in the world in which we live. When naming categories, it shows that the categories are there to name. No one reading his words would say, “That person isn’t circumcised” if he was actually circumcised. The same is true with those who are slaves and those who are free. The differences exist, but Paul’s point is that they have no bearing on being in Christ. And yet, those who believe the church has replaced Israel ignore the categories that Paul mentions first – Greek and Jew. In doing so, replacement theologians have even made the claim that those in the church are the true Jews, even if they are Gentiles! This is both unbiblical and irrational.



To state the names implies there is a difference. Though there is now no distinction between them “in Christ,” there is a difference between them “in the world.” The church is not comprised of only Jews.



Life application: If you are a Jew in Christ, you remain a Jew. If you are a Gentile in Christ, you remain a Gentile. There is no distinction between the two, but the differences remain. Don’t call yourself what you are not!



Lord God, You have swept away all supposed divisions of people in Your church. In Christ, there is now no distinction between Jew or Greek, barbarian or one who is cultured, and the visible differences of black, white, yellow, brown, and red make no difference to You. What matters is not an external identification, but an internal change of the heart. When one calls on Jesus, they become a part of this great body which You have established. Thank You that You would even call someone like me. Praises to You, O God. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:12, 14 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, MAY 14, 2017

Sunday, 14 May 2017



Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; Colossians 3:12



Paul has just given a list of categories where one in any category is no longer lifted above another in any other category. All are on an equal basis before God because of Christ. For this reason, Paul says, “Therefore.” As all are on this same equal level in Christ, there should be a resulting understanding of this, which is followed through with an equal respect for all.



In confirmation of this, he says, “as the elect of God.” In other words, any who have received Christ – whether Greek, Jew, circumcised, uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, or free – any such category, each person is one of the “elect of God.” The idea of being elect signifies privilege. All have the same rights and benefits, and each is “holy and beloved.” Charles Ellicott states, “The elect are ‘holy,’ consecrated to God in thought and life; and ‘beloved,’ accepted and sustained in their consecration by His love.” As every person in Christ bears these traits, we are not to look down on any other who is in Christ.



Rather, we are to “put on tender mercies.” Vincent’s Word Studies call this “a heart of compassion.” We are to be compassionate towards our fellow believers, not ignoring their needs because of some supposed difference which would otherwise lesson them in our eyes.

Likewise we are to put on “kindness.” This is “the Spirit-produced goodness which meets the need and avoids human harshness” (HELPS Word-Studies).

Paul follows next with “humility.” The believer is to be humble in spirit, not raising himself above others, but instead giving preference to others, submitting to them and their needs and desires.



After that he notes “meekness.” It is the gentle and mild attitude where a person receives another with an open heart and an easy-going disposition.



He finishes the verse with “longsuffering.” This is a trait which displays the willingness to put up with another despite their faults. It is patience without exasperation, and it is even allowing one to overlook the wrongs committed towards oneself by another.



Life application: Bearing the traits Paul notes in this verse takes time and effort, but it is right that we work on them because those who are in Christ are also the elect. We are not raised above them, and they are not raised above us. Rather we are equal as we stand in relation to one another. And so let us do our best to act in the manner we have been exhorted to act in these words.



Lord God, help us to live out the truth that all who are in Christ are on the same level. There are none greater or lesser, but all are elect. Because of this, help us to display qualities of gentleness, longsuffering, kindness, and humility toward our fellow brothers and sisters. May we never exalt ourselves over one another, but display a gracious attitude towards each other at all times. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:13, 15 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, MAY 15, 2017

Monday, 15 May 2017



…bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. Colossians 3:13



This verse, which is a continuation of the thought from the previous verse, begins with, “bearing with one another.” The word indicates a purposeful endeavoring in our attitude. We should have an earnest desire to exert ourselves in love in order to “secure a thing not lightly obtained” (Albert Barnes). People can wear us out with their own pet peeves, insecurities, jealousies, and the like. In our walk, we should be willing to bear such things in love rather than breaking down and shooting forth darts of anger.



He then says, “forgiving one another.” Forgiveness is something we are exhorted to do because without forgiveness there is no harmony. And without harmony, a wall of division is built up which normally will affect more than just the two who are in disagreement. Small divisions which are left to fester can divide entire churches. Therefore, when someone offends another, and when the offender requests forgiveness for their offense, the offended is to grant that forgiveness. This will be built upon with the rest of the words of the verse.



Next Paul says, “…if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.” God forgave us in Christ – completely and wholly – having canceled our debt through His sacrifices. There were no strings attached. The forgiveness is complete, it is eternal, and it was based upon a simple request for forgiveness of having offended God. This then is the standard. Our forgiveness is to resemble that which God has provided to us. It is to be complete and completely forgiven. When we are asked to provide it we are to give it.



Having said that, this needs to explained further. Far too often, this verse, among several others, are taken to unintended extremes because people do not think through what is being said. Eventually, someone will offend someone else, and then those around him will say, “You must forgive that person.” This is true, but only if the offender requests it. Forgiveness is not unconditional in Christ, and it would, therefore, be a greater standard than God expects of Himself to say that we must forgive everyone all the time.



To say that forgiveness in Christ is unconditional would lead to the theology of universalism – everyone goes to heaven, and nobody goes to hell. This is absurd, and the Bible never teaches it. God’s condition for forgiveness is faith in the cross of Christ, receiving that for the lost soul – “Lord God, I am sorry for my sins. I ask that I be forgiven through the shed blood of Christ.” Whether those words are specifically stated or not, they are implied in what the cross of Christ signifies. All people, and all sins, are potentially forgiven in Christ. When we ask for that forgiveness, it is actually granted.



Some other examples of verses which are misused concerning forgiveness are -



1) Jesus on the cross said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). People will say, Jesus forgave them so you must too. First, Jesus didn’t forgive them, He asked the Father to. Secondly, the sin was unintentional (they know not what they do). Third, after Jesus’ ascension, Peter explained what occurred and said to these same people that they must repent or be destroyed and cut off – he even called them a “wicked generation.” Their destruction occurred 40 years later when Israel was destroyed and the Jews were dispersed, just as Jesus predicted. Forgiveness didn't come for the nation who rejected Christ.



2) “But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Matthew 6:15. This is taken entirely out of context as a stand-alone verse. The surrounding verses are about asking for forgiveness first. When we do, He does. And we are to do likewise when someone repents toward us.



3) “If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him. If he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times comes back to you and says, ‘I repent,’ forgive him” (Luke 17:3,4). In this verse, forgiveness clearly is based on repentance.



4) In a comparable passage in Matthew 18:35 people tend to only quote the forgiveness part – “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart.” However, the entire parable is based on one getting on one’s knees and first asking forgiveness.



5) “If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven” (John 20:23). Pretty clear here. Though speaking to the apostles, Jesus’ followers could retain the sins of others and they were not forgiven.



6) When we say the Lord’s Prayer – “…forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us” we are acknowledging God as our forgiver and we are asking for that forgiveness. It therefore would logically be the same with those who “trespass against us.”



Life application: Context matters for proper doctrine, and doctrine matters for proper theology. Keep things in context.



Heavenly Father, help us to remember that when others come to us and ask for forgiveness, we are to forgive them for what they have done. Our petty offenses are nothing in comparison to what we have been forgiven by You. When we asked for forgiveness in Christ, You freely and abundantly provided it. In Christ, all are potentially forgiven, and when we ask for it, we are actually forgiven. What a display of love! Thank You, O God, for Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:14, 16 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, MAY 16, 2017

Tuesday, 16 May 2017



But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. Colossians 3:14



In the previous two verses, Paul has given a list of things which the believer is exhorted to do in order to be sound, well rounded Christians who accurately reflect the characteristics and traits of Christ. Now he places those things under one larger umbrella by stating, “But above all.” The words here give the idea of a garment which covers everything else and encloses it. Over all of the things he has said, we are to “put on love.” Love is the external, covering garment of all of the other things we are to wear (or “put on” as he said in verse 12).



The reason for covering all of the other exhortations with love is because it is, as he says, “the bond of perfection.” Love is what ties together all of the other virtues he has mentioned. The word translated as “perfection” carries the idea of a collective which results from a combination of other things. When kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering, and the other virtues which Paul exhorts us to possess are tied together with love, then a perfection of the whole is the result.



Life application: If someone is kind to another person, but is kind in an unloving way, the kindness of the deed is lost. The same is true with any such otherwise noble trait. When love is lacking, there is a deficiency in it. Let us remember to be loving in all we do, letting it surround us as a garment of perfection.



Lord God, You word asks us to clothe ourselves as if in a garment of love. In doing this, then all of the other things we do will be done well. If we do a kind deed without love, then what we have done will be quickly forgotten. But when we are kind with a loving attitude attached to the deed, it will be received for what it truly is. When You sent Christ Jesus into the world, He came with a garment of love which surrounded Him. Help us to emulate our Lord, and help us to be pleasing to You in this manner. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:15, 17 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2017

Wednesday, 17 May 2017



And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Colossians 3:15



Paul had just implored his reader to “put on love, which is the bond of perfection.” Now, in addition to that, he says, “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts.” In Philippians 4:7, he told the congregation that “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” In order to have the peace of God, it is necessary to have a knowledge of what Christ has done, and of what He promises for us because of what He has done. When we possess that knowledge, we can then let it rule in our hearts.



The word Paul uses for “rule” is used just this once in Scripture. It means “to be an umpire,” or “to arbitrate.” We are to let the peace of God be the umpire of our actions. But again, we can only do this if we have a knowledge of what God has done, is doing, and will do for us.



Through reading and understanding Scripture, we can see the ultimate end which is promised to us. In this, if we can just keep our eyes on what we know lies ahead because of Christ, we should be able to obtain and live in this peace. The saints at Paul’s time only had the Old Testament Scriptures. Today we have the whole counsel of God. In reading the words of the Bible, and in holding fast to what is recorded there about what lies ahead for the redeemed, we truly can possess the peace of God, even in times of the greatest trials and struggles imaginable.

With this knowledge, and the peace that comes along with it, we can comfort one another. We can reassure those who are downtrodden, and we can remind them of the glory which lies ahead. It is to this peace of God, ruling in our hearts, that Paul says we “were called in one body.” We are called to possess a knowledge of the word, and then to share it with others. Paul’s noting of the “one body” is reminding us of the words of verse 11 where he cast aside all external distinctions and said that we are all of Christ equally. There should be no division in this one body because of these supposed differences.



In this state of knowledge and harmony with other believers, we are to “be thankful.” Knowing the good end which is promised for us, and knowing that we are not below any other believers, but that we possess the same promised blessings as they do, we are to rejoice and give thanks to God. Paul will next expand on this as he shares the means of accomplishing these things.



Life application: Christ has overcome the world. He has also promised that we who are in Him will also overcome the world. Truly then, why should we be overly despondent about what happens in this life. It is natural to mourn when sadness comes, but in our times of sadness, or other negative emotions, we should not let them get the best of us. Instead, we should be uplifted in Christ at all times because of the surety we possess.



Lord God, we who have trusted in Christ Jesus possess the greatest surety of all. He defeated death, having come out of the grave in fulfillment of Scripture. Now, we are promised the same good end. We too shall overcome death and be raised to eternal life in a setting which we were originally intended to enjoy. Knowing this, how can we walk around mourning about life’s troubles? Let us rejoice and be glad in the glory that lies ahead! Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:16, 18 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017



Thursday, 18 May 2017

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. Colossians 3:16

Paul uses the rare term “word of Christ” (this is the only time it is seen) in this verse rather than the more common “word of God.” In Philippians 2:16, he calls it the “word of life.” The word of God is the word of Christ, and the word of Christ is the word of life. Each time the word is given a descriptor in this manner, it helps us to more rightly understand the immense importance of this marvelous gift we have been given. It is a word of intimate fellowship with our Creator, and it is a word from which life is produced, if we are willing to properly apply it to our own lives. Thus it is the doctrine of Christ which Paul is speaking of. His word is our doctrine.

Paul admonishes those at Colossae (and thus us!) to let this marvelous word of Christ dwell in us “richly.” The word gives the idea of abundance. As it is an adverb, it means that the word of Christ should dwell in us abundantly. It shouldn’t just be a passing part of our lives, but one which overflows from us at all times. In understanding this, he then adds on a descriptive thought indicating that not only should the word dwell in us richly, but that it should be “in all wisdom.”

A question arises in these words though. Is “wisdom” described by “teaching and admonishing” which follow after it, or is it connected to the word “teaching?” Both are possible –

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom teaching, and admonishing…

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing…

It is hard to be dogmatic, and the ambiguity may mean that it was intentional. One is wise when they teach and admonish, but one who has the word of Christ in an abundant manner will naturally desire to teach wisdom and to admonish others. Either way, the instruction and admonishment is to be “in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs.”

Psalms are words which come directly from the Word of God (which is the word of Christ). They have been accumulated and are included in the Old Testament. As Paul cites them as profitable for instruction, then they are a useful tool for all of God’s people at all times, and are not to be ignored in our daily lives.

Hymns would be songs which include Scripture in them, teaching theological truths about God. They are intended to lead us to a firm foundation in knowing and understanding His wonderful works.

Spiritual songs would then be songs which are written about a relationship with God, but not necessarily relying on Scripture. They direct hearts and minds to God based on the emotion of the composer’s personal feelings about his relationship with his Creator.

Paul instructs his readers that they are to engage in these things while “singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” The Greek has an article before “grace.” Thus it literally says, “in the grace.” Because of this, it is limited to the grace of God. As believers are indwelt by the Holy Spirit, this is what Paul is referring to. We are to rely on the Spirit and together with Him sing in our hearts to the Lord. Based on the construction of the Greek, it therefore correctly reads, “…in the grace, singing in your hearts to the Lord.” We are to actively live in the grace of God, and we are to express that state with singing in our hearts to the Lord because of it.

Life application: One cannot fulfill the exhortations of this verse unless they fill themselves with the word of God. We are to read it, meditate on it, speak it, share it, and rejoice in it. Let us never tire of filling ourselves with this most marvelous treasure which has been given to us by our glorious Creator.

Heavenly Father, fill us with the desire to know Your word more and more each day. Help us not to fall away from it, but to allow it to dwell in us richly. In doing so, it will then overflow from us and come to the ears of those around us. And who knows which person will need the tender words of a psalm or a hymn at that moment? And even more, if nobody is around us, we still are surrounded by You. May our hearts overflow with songs from our hearts to You because of the grace which abides in us and which was bestowed upon us by You. Surely You are worthy of the songs of our hearts at all times. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:17, 19 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017



Friday, 19 May 2017

And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Colossians 3:17

Paul now gives a greeting rather similar to 1 Corinthians 10:31 – “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” He is a bit more specific in this exhortation, changing “eat or drink” to “word or deed,” and adding in that all should be done in the name of the Lord Jesus.

The words “whatever you do” is really all-inclusive. Anything in our regular walk of life, and anything in our spiritual life as well, is to be brought into harmony with our dedication to the Lord. To expand on that, he adds “in word or deed.” When we speak and when we act, we are to direct those things properly and in a manner worthy of “the name of the Lord Jesus.” He is to be the focus of our eyes, the direction of our thoughts, the utterance of our lips, and the reason for our deeds.

And in addition to these things, we are to give “thanks to God the Father.” The theme of being thankful has literally permeated this epistle. As he closes each section of exhortations, he has added, and will continue to add, a note concerning this (see Colossians 1:12, 2:7, 3:15, and 4:2). If we have words to utter, we are alive to utter them. If we have deeds to do, we have strength to do them. Each of these things comes from God who created us and sustains us. Because of this, thanks should never be left from our lips and lives.

But Paul goes a step further than just telling us to be grateful to God the Father. We are to do it “through Him,” meaning Jesus. Jesus is the focal point of God’s attention toward His people, and He is to be the focal point of our attention as we return thanks to God. Without Jesus, we would be lost forever, but because of Him, we have a sure hope of an eternal dwelling. There, Christ will radiate out the glory of God for all eternity.

Life application: Let us think on this verse often, and then put it into action. It is so very easy to get misdirected by the world in which we live. But if we just hold fast to Christ in all we do, and give thanks to God the Father through Him, we will be useful, pleasing vessels for God’s use.

Heavenly Father, You have fashioned us as jars of clay, ready to be filled. We can be filled with useless, corrupt contents, or we can be filled with Your Spirit – alive and vibrant. Help us to live out our lives properly, being filled with You, and doing all things in the name of the Lord Jesus. To Your glory we pray this. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:18, 20 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, MAY 20, 2017



Saturday, 20 May 2017

Wives, submit to your own husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Colossians 3:18

Paul now goes from general precepts which affect the whole civil life of men, to precepts which are more specific and which pertain to man’s family. He begins by addressing wives, writing a very basic thought which contains the same sentiment found throughout all of Scripture, but which is unfortunately mocked and ridiculed, even in the church itself, in today’s world. His words are fitting, proper, and what God expects. He says, “Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands.” The word “submit” is in the present tense. This is your duty now and as long as you are wife to your husband. You are to submit to him.

God has ordained a hierarchy within the family unit, and this structure is expected to be adhered to. Disobedience to it is no different than any other type of disobedience. But modern sensibilities shun any such authoritative structure, and they place societal values above those of biblical values. Because of this, the family unit readily breaks down, and in turn so do the marriages. But God’s word stands, and for the woman of God who is obedient to His word, she will submit to her husband as He has directed. Paul says that such “is fitting in the Lord.”

The verb now switches to the imperfect tense, signifying from the moment when she became a believer, or from the moment that she marries as a believer. His words here seem to imply that such was not the case with some women at Colossae, and he is specifically addressing the issue to correct that deficiency. But the spirit of non-submission found in Colossae is held in high esteem among the modern feminist movement. If marriage takes place at all, it is with the attitude that says, “Submit schmubmit. I can handle taking charge.” This approach has spread to believers, and it causes real problems within the church and within the families of the church.

Paul will give exhortations next to husbands, fathers, and bondservants. Each has his place and his responsibility within the home environment, and each should be willing to follow though with adhering to the words we have been given. Paul speaks of this matter elsewhere, such as in Ephesians 5 and Titus 2. Peter also speaks of this matter in 1 Peter 3.

Life application: The word is written. We will either adhere to it and be considered obedient, or we will shun it and be considered disobedient. No other option exists for the believer in Christ. Human pride is a sad infection in our lives which must be quashed lest we stand before our Lord and suffer loss because of it. Wives, submit yourselves to you husbands, as if fitting in the Lord. In turn, you will bring honor to Him and stability to your home.

Lord God, it is You who have determined the family structure. Help us to be obedient to Your desire for each of us as we live in relation to that structure. In doing so, the family will be strong, the authority will be set, the members will be happy, and You will be well-pleased. May we adhere to Your word in this, putting away pride and not letting cultural norms take precedence over what You have ordained. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:19, 21 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2017



Sunday, 21 May 2017

Husbands, love your wives and do not be bitter toward them. Colossians 3:19

After instructions to the wives, Paul next addresses the husbands. His words are carefully selected. First he says, “Husbands, love your wives.” The word is present imperative active. Thus, “You are to do this now and always, you are certainly to do it, and you are to actively do it… Love your wives!” A man and a woman are one when united in marriage. Because of this, they are to love one another just as they love themselves. Just because a wife is to submit to her husband, it does not give him the right to act in a non-loving way towards her. Rather, the exact opposite is true.

Paul then follows up with, “and do not be bitter toward them.” The verb now goes from the active to the passive. Thus it should read, “and do not be embittered toward them.” As the woman is the weaker vessel, the husband may get exasperated by her weakness. Or, there may be other ways in which a man gets frustrated with his wife (is it possible?), and so Paul admonishes the husband to not allow himself to become embittered towards her. Each is an individual, and each is designed by God to form a whole. Surely men cause women to get exasperated (surely!), and the same is true with women. The husband, being the head of the house is to not allow bitterness to grow because of this position.

Life application: When we consider the strengths of our spouses, then the failings will be less noticeable. It is so easy in life to focus on the negative, but let us not do so – especially in regards to our spouses. Instead, let us love, cherish, and honor one another. In so doing, the Lord will look with favor upon our marriages.

Heavenly Father, You are so very good to us in having designed men and women to form a whole when coming together in the bonds of marriage. There is no substitute to this marvelous union, and we only destroy what is right, moral, and holy when we deviate from the plan, ordained by You. May we hold our spouses in high regard, and never give in to acknowledging any marriage union as acceptable other than this type which was ordained by You. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:20, 22 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, MAY 22, 2017



Monday, 22 May 2017

Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord. Colossians 3:20

This verse is a shortened form of Ephesians 6:1-3 –

“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 “Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with promise: 3 “that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.”

The necessity of children to be obedient to their parents is found throughout Scripture, both implicitly and explicitly. Solomon admonished it to the youth of his audience when he wrote –

“My son, hear the instruction of your father,

And do not forsake the law of your mother;

9 For they will be a graceful ornament on your head,

And chains about your neck.” Proverbs 1:8, 9

Having stated this, Paul is speaking of proper things which would be pleasing to the Lord. The words “all things” cannot mean things which are contrary to what the Lord would ordain for people to do. In such instances, disobedience to the parents’ directives would be the proper course of action. Even as children within a household, obedience to God’s word must come first.

However, when the instructions of one’s parents is in line with Scripture, or at least neutral in regards to Scripture, then obedience to them is right and proper. As Paul notes, “for this is well pleasing to the Lord.” Christ was obedient to His Father, and He has set the example for all others to follow. There is a set hierarchy which has been ordained by God, and to which we are expected to adhere. In doing so, we will be pleasing to the Lord.

Life application: Again, Paul has set a standard for conduct within the family which is expected to be adhered to. Concerning children, how obvious it is that they should, in fact, be obedient to their parents. But this is not just a responsibility which is laid upon them. Rather, when they are disobedient, it is time for the parents to enforce the rules of the house. It is something that seems almost foreign to modern families though. But just because it is unpopular to discipline children, it does not mean that it is wrong. As Solomon says –

“Do not withhold correction from a child,

For if you beat him with a rod, he will not die.

14 You shall beat him with a rod,

And deliver his soul from hell.” Proverbs 23:13, 14

Are you going to trust a TV show or the word of God in how to raise your children?

Heavenly Father, in this world where discipline supposedly seems like an unjust thing, help us to be obedient to Your word and not to the societal norms which have crept up around us. Without correction, there is no proper instruction. No wonder many schools have become riotous dens filled with unreasoning animals, and our prisons are chock-full of violent criminals. We have departed from Your word, and we are reaping what we have sown. Please turn our hearts and minds to a right application of Your word, and this unholy tide will be stopped. If so law and order can rule once again. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:21, 23 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, MAY 23, 2017



Tuesday, 23 May 2017

Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged. Colossians 3:21

This verse is a close match to Ephesians 6:4 –

“And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.”

The word Paul uses for “provoke” is found only here and in 2 Corinthians 9:2. It gives the sense of stirring something up. His intent then is that fathers are not to irritate their children. In acting in such a manner, they are bound to “become discouraged.” This word is one found only here in Scripture, athumeo. It gives the sense of being spiritless, and thus disheartened.

It is not appropriate for a father to beat down a child to the point that they become despondent and broken in their spirit. Rather, a father is meant to do exactly the opposite, building their children up so that they will become mature and sound people. Instead of deriding a child for missing the ball with the bat, the father should encourage him. “That’s OK son, it was a great swing.” In the end, such positive, rather than negative, reinforcement will produce the more stable child.

Life application: In dealing with your children, ask yourself if you would like to be treated the way they are being treated. How often we expect more of our children than we would of ourselves. It is true we should want them to become even better people than we are, but growing is a process which takes time and encouragement.

Heavenly Father, help those of us who are parents to be more like You. Help us to encourage our children, guide them on the right paths of righteousness, and to teach them how to avoid the pitfalls of life. Your word does each of these things for us, and so help us to apply those precepts to our interactions with our own children. In the end, we will build them up rather than exasperate them if we do these things. Help us in this, to Your glory. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:22, 24 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, MAY 24, 2017



Wednesday, 24 May 2017

Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God. Colossians 3:22

Verses 22-25 closely match Ephesians 6:5-8 –

“Bondservants, be obedient to those who are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in sincerity of heart, as to Christ; 6 not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, 7 with goodwill doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men, 8 knowing that whatever good anyone does, he will receive the same from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free.”

There are some differences in the two passages though which will be evaluated. So far, Paul has noted relations in the immediate family within the household. This one is almost as close, and maybe even closer, as far as daily contact is concerned. The term “bondservant” is as good as one can get from the Greek word doulos. The term applies to one who is bound to the service of another. This could be a voluntary subjection or an involuntary duty, and it can also go as far as being a slave.

Their rights were extremely limited even in the best of cases. In some instances, they had virtually no rights at all. And yet, there is the note of a reward, even for them, which will be fully revealed in verse 24.

For the Christian bondservant, Paul instructs them to “obey in all things your masters.” Despite the many difficult rigors often suffered under cruel masters, Paul simply makes the command. He doesn’t qualify it with, “If they are good masters,” nor does he give any hint that they have a right to rebel. The status of slaves or bondservants was simply a fact of life. Those who were so bound were to accept it. However, he does give a note concerning slaves elsewhere that is worth citing –

“Let each one remain in the same calling in which he was called. 21 Were you called while a slave? Do not be concerned about it; but if you can be made free, rather use it.” 1 Corinthians 7:20, 21

However, as long as a person was bound, they were to be obedient to their masters. And yet, Paul adds on a descriptor for them to consider. It is a master “according to the flesh.” In other words, there are human limitations which are being spoken of here. Paul is implying that they are bondservants of Another as well, which is not according to the flesh. It is for this reason that they were to be obedient to their human master.

Paul then asks that such bondservants be obedient “not with eyeservice.” It is a word used only here and in Ephesians 6:6, and it appears to be a word invented by him. The use of it is to indicate someone who serves only when the eye of his master is present. When the master is out, he refuses to conduct his duties as he should. Paul says that this is inappropriate. Rather, a servant is to serve his master in the same manner as he would serve the Lord, which means at all times.

He next explains what that means by saying (not as) “men-pleasers.” This word is also found only here and in Ephesians 6:6. It indicates someone who is willing to please man rather than God. The idea of both of these words is that a bondservant is to look to his duties to his master (whether he is a good master or a crummy one) as if he was actually serving the Lord. In so doing, he would be a responsible representative of the Lord in the presence of his master. This is explained in the next words, “but as bondservants of Christ.”

By acting as a bondservant of Christ, even for his earthly master, he will then be doing it “in sincerity of heart, fearing God.” Paul puts a stress on the value of the heart being sincere in the performance of the bondservant's duties. In this sincere attitude, a demonstration that one’s heart is directed toward a proper fear of God is seen. And it is God who looks upon the heart to determine the value of all people's actions.

As we have a different system of employment in the world today, we need to adapt that system to Paul’s words. Rather than masters, we have bosses. However, we are to treat our bosses with the same respect that the bondservant is called to for his master. We are not to be employees who perform with mere eyeservice, nor are we to simply be men-pleasers. We are to act as if we are reporting to Christ, making the most efficient use of our time under the employ of our employers.

Life application: In the world, it is so easy to fall in with the “labor union” mentality. The liberal attitude, both in government and in private industry, says that it is OK to not work to the highest standard of integrity and diligence. But the Bible tells us otherwise. If you act like a democrat in your work environment by failing to give your all to your boss, you are not acting as the Lord would have you to work. It is time to mature out of your self-centered work attitude, and to become a devoted, dedicated employee. And this is regardless of the attitude of your employer. If you can’t deal with him, then it is you who needs to find another job. Think clearly! Apply the Bible and its precepts to your life! Be honoring of the Lord through your employment.

Lord God, help us to have a proper attitude in our employment. You would have us work our jobs as if we are working for Christ, doing the will of God from the heart. It isn’t always easy, but this is what You ask of us. In acting this way, productivity will be up, and whining would be down. Help us to not be whiners, but to be faithful employees who strive to seek Your honor before our earthly bosses. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:23, 25 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, MAY 25, 2017



Thursday, 25 May 2017

And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, Colossians 3:23

Continuing on with his words to bondservants, Paul now tells them quite clearly that “whatever you do, do it heartily.” In the comparable passage in Ephesians 6, he told them that they were to be “doing the will of God from the heart.” The two thoughts mean essentially the same thing. The heart is to be actively willing and eager to perform the required functions necessary to please God. If bondservants “fear God” as it said in verse 22, then they will naturally do their work heartily.

Paul then continues to explain this with his next words. The duties of a bondservant are be conducted with a friendly and agreeable attitude because it is “as to the Lord and not to men” that this work is actually to be done. We may have earthly masters over us, but we are first and foremost servants of the Lord. It is to Him that we are fully accountable in all aspects of our lives.

As noted in the previous verse, we don't have slaves or bondservants in normal society today, but we do have employers over us to whom we are to submit. And the reason remains the same. We are representatives of Christ, and thus people will make their evaluations of Him based on our actions.

Life application: Who do you feel you are serving when you go to work? A crummy boss? A greedy company? In the highest sense, you are serving the Lord. Therefore, perform your duties to the highest of your capabilities, knowing that He will reward you for your efforts in glorifying Him.

Lord God, some of us have bosses that are really crummy. Some of us work for corporations that are greedy and have no care about the world around them. To them, it is all about the amount of profit they can get out of others. And yet, when we go to our jobs, we are above all serving You. Give us the desire, as faithful followers of Christ, to perform our jobs to the utmost of our capabilities so that others will see our actions and speak well of Your name. Surely You will reward us for our efforts in bringing such glory to You. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 3:24, 26 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, MAY 26, 2017



Friday, 26 May 2017

…knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ. Colossians 3:24

This verse, still being addressed to the bondservants, is a close parallel to Ephesians 6:8 –

“…knowing that whatever good anyone does, he will receive the same from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free.”

As a slave, this is the very last thing that they would ever dream of as coming from their owner. The very nature of being a slave is that they were property, and had no rights to any inheritance. Only a family member would receive such things. If there were no family members, the owner’s possessions would still go elsewhere, the slave included. He would simply be transferred as a part of the owner’s wealth to someone else.

But Paul tells the slaves that they were to conduct their duties in the fear of God because they would, in fact, “receive the reward of the inheritance.” Paul speaks of the inheritance of the saints quite a few times in Galatians, Ephesians, and Colossians. Likewise, the author of Hebrews, as well as Peter, speak of the inheritance of the saints. This promise is not only to those who are free in this life, but it is to be shared by those who are slaves as well. Together, all “serve the Lord Christ.”

There is one heavenly Master for all of the redeemed, and all will share in His inheritance. The share of each will not be based upon earthly position, gender, race, or any other such thing. Rather, it will be based upon what was done for the Lord in faith. Eternal rewards lie ahead for all, if they are but willing to pursue them now.

Life application: Don’t fear that your position or status in this life somehow drives your future inheritance in heaven. It doesn’t. Rather than worry about your status here, look to the future by being productive for Christ now. The highest ranking general has the same number of hours a day as the lowest private. What each does with their time for Christ is what matters.

Lord God, we have all been given the same number of hours each day to live out our lives. The president has no more or less time than anyone else to be productive in sharing Your word. And the inheritance You have promised to us is not based on status, wealth, color, race, or any other such earthly division. Rather, it is based on what we do for You now. Help us to consider this, remember it, and then apply it to the few hours a day we each have. To Your glory alone we pray. Amen.