Colossians 3:12

“Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”

Our children love their “Pillow Pets” – soft, cuddly, square pillow versions of dogs and pigs and sheep and such. They actually are amazingly soft and something about them makes you want to curl up and take a nap! Wouldn’t it be nice of most of us Christians were just as pleasing to be around? If our families were like living, breathing “Pillow Pets?”

A Colossians 3:12 family does not anger easily. It is kind, friendly, and inviting. Members of a Colossians 3:12 family don’t think too highly of themselves so they are willing to put other people first. Even when there is a conflict, this kind of family shows gentleness and great patience. In the end, a Colossians 3:12 family is known by how well it’s member’s care for one another.

Finally, a Colossians 3:12 family understands that God has chosen them to be the “holy people he loves,” and as a result, He expects them to behave this way. Not because it’s a set of rules that He wants us to follow, but because it is the kind of life that He wants His children to live – a life full of love and kindness and mercy.

APPLICATION: Go get the softest, most cuddly stuffed animal or “Pillow Pet” you own! Gather them together and describe why you like them so much. Then, talk about some ways that you can make your family life more “soft and cuddly.” Pray together and ask the Lord to help you make it so.