“so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects.” (Colossians 1:10)
The Scriptures often tell us that we are not worthy of salvation – there is nothing you can do to be deserving of heaven. None of us can boast (see 1 Corinthians 1:29). So in what way can we walk in a “manner worthy” if we are unworthy?
The key is context. Paul tells Christians to walk in a manner worthy of pleasing God. God is pleased by imperfect lives seeking to live faithfully. God is pleased by repentance and feeble strength groping for Him. God is pleased by good, faith, effort, and perseverance. God is pleased by those who try, fail, and then get back up to do it all over again. God is pleased by honest hearts which admit their faults and work out their salvation with fear and trembling.
A life without pride or pretense that leans upon the Lord and not its own understanding… this is a life walked in a worthy manner, and it pleases Him. May your day be full of worthy steps.
Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites
Today’s Reading: Colossians 1:11-23
Questions to ask:
- How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
- What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
- How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
- What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
- How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?
This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul. If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision