I meant to read I Thessalonians 3

I accidentally read Colossians 3 tonight. My NASB has this chapter directly across the page from 1 Thess 3. I would not have realized my error, but then I opened my Bible to write this post. At first, I was so frustrated that 1 Thess 3 already seemed so unfamiliar to me. Now I see my faux pas. I should add that it is still a shame that 1 Thess 3 is so unfamiliar to me.

HOWEVER, I am glad God led me to Colossians 3 tonight. God reminded me that because I am daily being renewed to the true knowledge of His image, that I must put aside my old self with its evil practices. I have been raised up with Christ, therefore I must give up anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech and adopt a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.

God reminded me tonight that (vs.12) as one who has been chosen by God, I will not incur the wrath of God (vs.6). I once was a son of disobedience, but only due to the Lord's forgiveness (vs. 13) am I no longer walking along His road as His enemy. My life is Christ and I will be revealed with Him in glory (vs.4), AMEN!

I'm feeling a bit like Wayne and Garth, "We're not worthy! We're not worthy!" I will be glorified with Christ because why? Because God is God and He is pleased to forgive me. That just blows my mind. I, born as an immoral, impure, greedy, idolatrous female, am being given the knowledge of God's image. Why? Why wretched me?

Colossians 3 does not go into great detail about the why. Instead, God focuses our attention on what our reaction to this unmerited grace should be:

vs. 15-17 ...and be thankful. Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.

So this is what I know: I was a son of disobedience; God chose me; My life is now hidden in Christ; My reaction should be a life of obedience and thankfulness. Sounds like a great deal to me, and hey, Christ already purchased my pardon. I think Amazon.com only offers free shipping.

Thanks be to God, Giver of life and love. Help me put on my new self and put on love.
Thank you for Your peace and Your unity.