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.

This chapter has many dearly-loved verses, but I think I’m to focus on this one this morning. This is about as all-inclusive a statement as you could make: “Whatever you do.” That doesn’t leave any wiggle room! On top of that, it specifies, “in word or deed.” Words are powerful, and are not to be taken lightly, but words by themselves are at times meaningless. The Japanese term for integrity is literally, “word-action agreement.” James wrote a great deal about that in his letter. In reading this verse we also need to be aware of what it meant to do something in someone’s name. We pray, “In Jesus’ name, amen,” not thinking about how that means “in harmony with, as that person would desire.” Here Paul expands that beyond prayer to everything we say and do, and then he tacks on that we are to thank God, echoing the verse just ahead of this. Gratitude is absolutely essential, but it’s also virtually inescapable if we have any kind of a grasp of all that God has done for us in Christ. That’s actually very convenient, because psychologists tell us, very reasonably, that gratitude is the key to happiness. You could condense this chapter by saying, “You want to be happy? Get your eyes off of the junk around you (verses 1-2) and focus fully on Jesus!” Some people think the Bible is theoretical and impractical, but actually it’s the most practical book in the world!

I have particularly loved verses 16-17 since learning a musical setting for them in Japanese. Translating that song into English, I included part of verse 15, because I had “notes left over,” but in either language it is a joyful and practical exhortation. I try to follow it, but I’m not the best judge of how well I do. God of course knows that perfectly, but the people around me are also likely better judges than I am. This particular verse is pointed for me because I have a gift for words, and I must be very careful in my stewardship of that gift. I am to speak and write in line with my Lord Jesus, not saying or doing anything that is out of synch with Him. However, as I told some people just recently, God has been so good to me that I would be a total fool not to believe in Him and be grateful. I do have things I don’t enjoy, but in comparison to the world at large, God has been more than gracious. I need to seek and receive His help to live out this verse, and indeed this chapter, for His glory.

Father, thank You for this reminder. Thank You that the ESWL to break up my kidney stone yesterday went smoothly, though it was surprisingly painful. I didn’t know to expect that, but it was hardly unbearable. Thank You that my vital signs just now were fine, so I’ll be able to get out of the hospital this morning. I do pray that everything will be clear in the check next Monday so that they will be able to remove the stent and I’ll be able to get back to my usual active lifestyle. In any case, may I indeed say and do everything in perfect harmony with You, for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!