'Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience' Colossians 3:12 [TNIV]
This verse gives the other side of the coin to our reflection on Tuesday about what we should 'put off'. We talked about putting off the rags of our lives.
Maybe you are still wearing some new clothes you were given at Christmas? Dressing gowns that are still fluffy, socks without holes or scarves that are keeping the winter winds at bay? It's lovely to wear new things especially when they have been thoughtfully given to us (or maybe even made for us) by people who love us. It's an extra special gift when some time and care has gone into a colour that might suit us or a style that would grace us.
God has these clothes tailor-made for us: compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Each of us will wear each of them slightly differently. These qualities will find a unique expression for you. Patience may not look the same on you as it does on me: God is not into clones. But he does want each of us to reflect his character and so if you want to be the best version of yourself, the 'you' that God most wants you become, then these qualities will be regulars in your wardrobe.
Stop and take a moment to think about what you are wearing today. I don't mean what you are actually wearing! Which of these qualities above might you be wearing right now? Or which one do you need to put on?
'Father, thank you that you offer me transformation. Some days I really don't feel at all patient or loving, kind or gentle. Father I need you to clothe me, I want to be the best version of myself that I can be. Fill today with your grace and presence, Jesus. Amen'
Sheila Bridge
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