COMMUNICATE LIKE CHRIST

Growing up, my mom used to say, "If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all." The basic idea was that we should communicate in a positive manner. In the family of Christ, our communication is to be Christlike.

"Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God." Colossians 3:16 

In verse 15 Paul encourages us to be peaceful in our dealings with each  other. Here in verse 16 he zooms in on our communication with each other and God. 

With each other Paul exhorts us to speak the word of Christ. Remember a few years ago when the "What Would Jesus Do?" bracelets became popular? The idea was that you would look at the bracelet and remember to be loving, to be Christlike in your actions. However it is that you are trying to communicate, be Christlike, be wise. A friend of mine once told me that people aren't ready to hear you until they are ready to hear you. I know that sounds redundant, but, unless someone is willing to listen and hear what you want to say, it will just go in one ear and out the other. Remember, love is patient. 

Besides our dealings with each other we also communicate with God. Worship is a vital element of our relationship with God. The word for worship comes from a word that means to turn and face as to kiss. Worship is about facing God. Paul stresses gratitude. Psalm 50:23 says, "He who sacrifices thank offerings honors me, and he prepares the way so that I may show him the salvation of God." Thankfulness keeps us centered on Christ. 

Father, thank you that Jesus died for us. Thank you that you are so patient with us. Help us to communicate in Christlike ways with each other. Praise be to you in us today!