Scripture for Today: Colossians 3:12 “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”

I am and have long been inexplicably drawn to thrift stores.  Long before it became popular, I was there.  The best places are the ones with no special sorting.  That way, one is more likely to find some unrecognized treasure.  But many of them do have a special rack labelled, “Vintage.”  I am not sure what qualifies for this category.  To me, the term usually just means outdated.  What is especially annoying is to find something hanging there that is suspiciously like what is currently hanging in my closet!

Toady’s verse talks about some spiritual clothing that is never vintage and never outdated.  We are to clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.  Each of these clothing pieces have to do with how we treat others.  And each of these beautiful qualities are expressions of the Spirit residing in the believer.  They are not clothing for special occasions but are to characterize our every-day look.  Wearing these clothes sets us apart from others as belonging to the Lord.

Knowing that I am “dearly loved” by the Lord makes all the difference in how I dress.  I do not have anything to prove to myself or others.  I am secure and held up by His love, making it possible to take the humble position with people.  I can forget about myself and focus on the needs of others when I really understand and live out that love.  Because He loves me, I have something to share. None of these qualities come from me, but from His love for me!

Thank you Lord, for changing my clothes to reflect Your love.