Paul - “We are writing to God’s holy people in the city of Colosse, who are faithful brothers and sisters in Christ.” (Colossians 1:2)
What does a “Saint” look like and act like? Most Bible translations use the word “Saint” instead of “holy people” in Colossians 1:2. We might describe a “Saint” as someone who wears an American football uniform and who plays in New Orleans. Or we might have in our mind someone who is so deeply spiritual and dresses and looks completely different from the people around them. But as we learned yesterday, God calls His people “Saints” - at least those who live holy and “set apart” lives and who are focused on carrying out His plans and purposes in their lives.
What does it take to become a “Saint”, to live a holy life? To become a “Saint,” we must live a “surrendered life.” Paul wrote in Romans 12:1: “Give your bodies to God. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice - the kind He will accept. When you think of what He has done for you, is this too much to ask?” That verse tells us that we must dedicate every facet of our lives to living a holy life to be a “Saint.”
To become a “Saint,” we must live a “separated life.” Paul also wrote in Romans 12:2, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.” One translation reads, "Don't let the world around you squeeze you into its own mold.” This verse reminds us that we must be committed to living, loving, talking, acting, and even dressing differently from the people of the world around us if we are to live holy or “saintly” lives.
Then, to become a “Saint,” we must be committed to living a “Spirit-led life.” Paul also writes in Romans 12:2, “Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will discover how good and pleasing and perfect His will is.” The Bible tells us that when God’s Spirit leads us, we will be able to overcome our “sinful nature” and live godly, Spirit-led lives (Galatians 5:16).
Prayer - Lord, show me how to live a surrendered, separated, and Spirit-led life so I can be all You’ve called me to be and live like You’ve called me to live.
Reflection - What changes need to take place in my life so that I can live a holy or “saintly” life? And what would be the benefits of living like the Lord wants me to live?
