Colossians 3:12-17 NKJV
12 Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; 13 bearing with one another, and forgiving one another.
When you travel the world, you will realize that different cultures have got different types of clothing they wear to identify with their culture. What may be acceptable in one culture may not be acceptable in another culture. When it comes to the Christian culture, the same applies. What is acceptable in the world may not be acceptable within the Christian culture. In fact, in the Christian culture, what we wear on the inside is far more important that what we wear on the outside. In fact to put it in another way, if we get the inward clothing right, we will not have a problem with our apparel on the outside.
Paul tells us to put on certain things that have to do with Christ like character.
Humility and meekness are important because they are foundational and they have to do with the state of mind we have to posses. Our state of mind determines how we see the world and how we treat those around us. To be humble is to not think of yourself as being more important of others despite your position or status in life or the material wealth you have. To have humility is to see every one for what they are worth, humans made in the image and likeness of God.
Meekness on the other hand is that attribute of a submissive heart. This is a heart that is submissive to Gods leading, a heart that is willing to walk in obedience to the word of God even when one does not understand. The Bible says that Moses what the meekest man on the earth. He walked with God and was able to lead the children of Israel out of Egypt.
A man or woman walking in humility and meekness is a man who will stand out from the culture of this world that promotes pride and a way of life that pushes you to do what you like and what makes you feel good.
Take note, the bible does tell us to put on this character traits. We have a responsibility that no one else can do for us. Pray we must but after we have prayed we must put on these qualities.
Reflections
How do you treat others especially those who have nothing that they can offer you?
Has God ever led you to do something you did not understand? What was the outcome?
How does one put on meekness and humility in everyday life?
