Changed Three Times Before I Left the House
by Katherine Kehler
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“Since God chose you to be the holy people whom he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience” (Colossians 3:12)
Mary and I were discussing clothes and how they can make you feel good about yourself or not. I told her that sometimes I change my outfit three times before leaving for an appointment or dinner engagement. She laughed and said, “You too?”
We also talked about some of the embarrassing moments we have had by being over-dressed or under-dressed. That happened to me not long ago. We were asked to a black-tie evening event. Marvin rented a black tux and looked incredibly handsome. I don’t own a long, dark dress, so I wore a lemon colored suit. It was a great suit and was perfect for summer weddings, but not for a formal evening event. Because we were in another city, I couldn’t change into something else. That was all I had.
When I walked into the room, I felt like a sore thumb. My husband assured me I looked great, but I knew I was not dressed properly for this event. I made it through the evening, but was terribly self-conscious.
Colossians 3:12 tells us how to clothe ourselves inwardly with tenderhearted mercy, with kindness, with humility, with gentleness and with patience. I am so grateful that when I allow the Holy Spirit to direct my life, He produces those traits because they don’t come natural. (Galatians 5:22-23)
What part of your spiritual wardrobe are you missing today? Don’t leave the house under-dressed. Ask the Holy Spirit to clothe you with all the traits of Colossians 3:12. You will look great because they will shine through.
Father, we ask You to clothe us with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. As Your holy people, we don’t want to be under-dressed. Amen