Dress For Success

5-21-2012 by Boyd Bailey “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Colossians 3:12 There is an inner attire Almighty God expects His people to wear. They are adorned with an attitude of compassion, kind words, a humble heart, a gentle demeanor, and patience with people and problems. Each day disciples of Jesus choose to clothe themselves with the character of Christ or remain naked to the world’s influences. Chosen people of God gladly put on spiritual apparel for they want first impressions to point people to Jesus. Jesus loves us lavishly, so we will love, even the unlovely, lavishly. Jesus blankets us with His compassion, so that we will extend the same depth of mercy to those caught up in their cares. Jesus’ kind words, “friend I forgive you” or “I am with you” are examples of how we extend kindness to hurting hearts. His humble heart of service leads us to serve. His gentleness with children changes how we correct and train our children. And Jesus’ patient endurance in adversity gives us hope and faith to persevere. “Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” Hebrews 12:3 Are you as conscientious about clothing your inner self with God’s expectations, as you are in dressing to impress the world with its latest fashion statement? Indeed, your outward adornment is an indicator of your inward beauty. So, make sure it is the security of your humble heart that draws attention to your compassionate countenance. Be intentional to cultivate a kind soul, so it spills over into gentle words and patient actions. The Holy Spirit is your faith fashion police reminding you of what’s really important. Spiritual fads come and go, but character built on Christ is steady and sustainable. Some sincere believers get caught up with the Second Coming of Christ but forget to prepare their hearts and lives in the meantime. Thus, dress for spiritual success and the Lord will smile down on your attractive life. Adorn your inner beauty with Christ’s appealing clothing. “Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.” 1 Peter 3:4 Prayer: Heavenly Father, dress me each day with the beauty of Your holiness and love. Related Readings: Job 40:10; Isaiah 52:1; Matthew 11:29, Luke 6:36; 1 Corinthians 13:4 God Bless! Logan Stout