“These rules may seem wise because they require strong devotion, pious self-denial, and severe bodily discipline. But they provide no help in conquering a person’s evil desires” (Colossians 2:23 NLT).

IT’S ABOUT RELATIONSHIP NOT RULES

Paul warned the believers in Colossae that asceticism, while it gives the appearance of wisdom, offers no help in conquering evil desires. In fact, following a list of rules might cause a deeper longing for the thing denied. At the very least, it can lead to a kind of spiritual pride, so that the ascetic feels superior to those addicted to the things of the flesh.

The truth is, the more we focus on not doing something, the more we tend to think about that something that we’re not doing. So, what is the answer? “Put off” the old nature which lost its power over you when received Christ. Count it dead, crucified with Christ. And immediately “put on” the new nature, which is yours in the risen Christ. Remember that in Christ there is no longer any condemnation. All your sins are forgiven. You are not longer a slave to sin, but a bondservant of Christ. You belong to Christ Jesus.

Following Christ is not about religious rule-keeping, but about walking in the new relationship we have as children of God in Christ Jesus.

PRAYER: Dear Father, thank You for Jesus. For in Him we have put off the old sin nature and put on the new nature, which pleases You. We are made right with You not through rule-keeping, but through faith in Jesus. He is our righteousness. Strengthen us this day to walk in the Spirit of Christ, so that we continually put on display the character of Jesus. In His name we pray, amen.