COLOSSIANS 3:17 | WHATEVER YOU DO

A few days ago, I wrote about the simplicity of doing good. I find that doing good is not complicated, but it isn’t easy. That is why I need constant reminders like Colossians 3:17 ESV, which says, “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

This instruction encompasses all things. That is the vision of the life of abiding—that in every moment, we would live connected to God and follow his heart. What we say and what we do have an impact on our effectiveness in the kingdom of God and on how others perceive and experience God’s kingdom.

When we operate in the name of Jesus, we function according to his character and values. That means we live surrendered to the Father. We live humble and compassionate lives. We seek the truth, pursue love, and live in freedom.

This command extends to the mundane moments just as much as it does to the seemingly significant moments. I love how living this lifestyle of surrender transforms routine tasks into divine encounters. How many miracles did Jesus perform simply on his way from one place to another? How many critical teachings did Jesus express over an everyday meal with his disciples?

The glue that holds this lifestyle together is thankfulness. When we forsake gratitude, we leave the grounding that we need to have heaven's perspective. On the other hand, giving thanks constantly brings us back into God’s presence.

You will have a chance today to live this verse out. Start right now by giving thanks. Whatever you are about to do next, consider how you might do it differently in the name of Jesus. Let God speak to you as you humbly and intentionally listen.

He is good.

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