Jesus secured our salvation through His death and resurrection. He defeated every spiritual authority and gives us new life when we choose to follow Him. We are no longer bound to the authorities and rules that once imprisoned us—we’ve died to them with Jesus. But we sometimes find ourselves submitting to the rules of the world, just as Paul cautioned the Colossians against. Instead of planting our foundation in the shaky things of this world, we must remain connected to the Head—Jesus Christ. In Him, we find freedom from sin, wisdom for daily life, and strength to pursue holiness. Paul urges the Colossian church to no longer follow the world’s empty laws and to put sin away. Have you been submitting to the flawed rules of this world rather than to Christ?

Day 1     Colossians 2:16-23

Reflect:  What is the main topic of this passage? Why is it so important? What is the condition of the judges Paul describes? How does legalism and judgment take place today in church?

Apply:  How have you struggled with legalism in your life? Why doesn’t legalism help restrain the sinful nature? What does Jesus teach about what it means to be spiritual?

Pray:     Father, thank You that in Christ I have been released from the bondage of legalistic rules and regulations to freedom in the resurrected life in Christ.

Day 2    Hebrews 10:1-10

Reflect: How does this passage support and expand the teaching in Colossians 2:16-23? What is the path to holiness (set apart for God)?

Apply:   Consider this—the foundation of our faith is not what we do, but who we follow. What would be different in your life if you put this into practice? Is your will aligned with Jesus’?

Pray:    Lord Jesus Christ, You brought an end to endless sacrifice as the all-sufficient sacrifice to redeem lost humanity and set us free. Help me to live in complete dependence upon You.

Day 3    Colossians 3:1-4

Reflect: What kinds of “things” is Paul referring to in verses 1-2? How would you explain verse 3 to          someone? How should our position in Christ transform our thinking?

Apply: How are you challenged by the call to “set your heart on things above”? Do your actions show that you are seeking after the things of God? Personalize and memorize verse 3.

Pray:    Father may I more fully live by Your eternal truths that are mine in Christ until the day comes when I will enjoy them perfectly and eternally.

Day 4    Colossians 3:5-11 

Reflect: What does this passage stir in you? Why does Paul use harsh terms like “put to death”? In verse 9 what does Paul mean when he says do not lie to one another?

Apply:   What earthly clothing do you need to get rid of as you transition from your old or false self to your new or true self? Are there lies you believe about yourself that are hindering you?

Pray:    Jesus, awaken me to the deception I have about my own sins. Give me the courage to renounce them and run into the truth of who I am in You.

Day 5      Colossians 3:12-17 

Reflect:  What are the top three or four directives Paul gives?  In terms of importance, how would you rank them?  How do these differ from worldly messages?

Apply:   If you had to pick one thing from this text to ask the Lord to increase for you, what would it be and why? How would living out verse 17 challenge and change you?

Pray:     Father, thank You for sending Jesus to be the ultimate example of how You would have    us live as a loved, chosen, and holy people.  Help me to live this out in the details of my       life so that others will see You in EVERYTHING I do.