Colossians 3:17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Every time I run into one of these “practical Christian living” sections in one of Paul’s letters I think how wonderful it would be if even everyone in my church lived this way! However, in general we live only a fraction of our lives, if that, in the Name of the Lord Jesus, and we seldom give God thanks. We don’t have a very good grasp of what the Bible means when it’s talking about “in Jesus’ Name.” Most Christians are quick to tack that onto the end of their prayers, but just saying the words doesn’t make the prayer be in line with His character and will, and that is actually what the Bible is talking about. This verse, then, is talking about living every part of our lives in line with Jesus’ character and will. That’s a tall order! It’s clearly impossible by merely human effort, but as Paul said, “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13) What is called for on our part is the choice, the will, to live that way, which leads to cooperating with the Holy Spirit in bringing it to pass. It is worth noting that living life in Jesus’ Name and giving God thanks are inseparable; we can’t do one without the other. The more we focus on giving God thanks, the easier it is to live every other facet of our lives in line with Jesus.

This is an understanding I have grown into over the years. Like every other Christian I was taught to pray “in Jesus’ Name, amen,” and I did so. Understanding the the depth and breadth of that came much later, and I still can’t say I’ve got it all down. I have talked about this from the pulpit, but this truth really has to be caught more than taught. That’s not to say I’m not to explain it to people, but it is to say I’m not to be disappointed if they don’t grasp it immediately. It takes the revelation of the Holy Spirit to grasp it fully, so that is what I’m to pray for. At the same time, I need to be diligent in keeping my own heart open before God in all humility, asking and allowing Him to work Christ into and through me in every aspect, every moment of my life. That’s not going to make me weird, it’s going to make me fully sane, fully whole, fulfilled in every way for His glory.

Father, thank You for this clear Word. Thank You for yesterday and all it held. Thank You for expressing Your message through me, and for how it was received. Thank You for the sweetness of the fellowship as we had lunch together after the service. Thank You for all that You are doing in this church, whether it’s immediately visible or not. Help us trust You for what You are doing and live each moment in joy and anticipation, giving You the thanks, praise, and glory You deserve. Thank You. Hallelujah!