Edge of Heaven ~ River Valley Worship
She is clothed with strength and dignity,
and she laughs without fear of the future.
and she laughs without fear of the future.
~ Proverbs 31:25 NLT
While reviewing the material of a women’s group I’m leading,
Holy Spirit said to include Proverbs 31:25. Even writing the word, “clothed,” reminded
me of the characteristics we’re to “put on” in the New Testament. We’re to put
on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, long-suffering, and love,
which binds all other virtues together in perfect unity, (Colossians 3:12,14).
But we’re not just supposed to put on the characteristics
of Christ, we’re also to put on Christ, (Romans 13:14; Galatians 3:27). Putting
on Christ is not like an outfit we wear and then throw in the dirty laundry. Putting
on our Lord and Savior is to be fully immersed in Him. John portrayed it
perfectly when he said, “He must increase, but I must decrease,” (John 3:30 NKJV).
When Colossians 3:10 and Ephesians 4:24 reference putting off the old self to
put on the new one, these aren’t swatches we trade out when the mood suits us. No.
It’s the purposeful decision to rid ourselves of our sins, shame, and worldly
desires, and to be fully enveloped, immersed, and clothed in the fullness of Christ.
Christ then becomes both your new identity, as well as
the armor you wear. This armor is used to not only put to death worldly desires,
but also empowers you to stand firm when the enemy roars, trying to knock you down
and devour you. But you, dear child of the Most High, having been fully
immersed in Christ, have been clothed in strength and dignity.
Do no fear the future, dear child. Instead, let the
weight of it melt away in peals of laughter, as your Father delights in you,
His child.
©Heather Potts 2020
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