by Dr. Al Hearne II 

[This image, Words and Actions, was created by DALL·E.]

Colossians 3:17, "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."

 

The Book of Colossians, written by the Apostle Paul, emphasizes the supremacy of Christ and how believers are to live in Him. Colossians 3:17 serves as a command, concluding a section that began in Colossians 2:6, where Paul urges believers to walk in Christ, rooted and built up in Him. The overarching message of this passage is that the entirety of our lives, every word, and every action, must reflect Christ.

The verse begins with "whatever you do, in word or deed," encompassing every aspect of life. There is no separation between the sacred and the secular in the life of a believer. Every conversation, decision, and action is to be done "in the name of the Lord Jesus," meaning under His authority and in a way that honors Him. Just as an ambassador represents a nation, Christians represent Christ. Our lives should demonstrate His truth, love, and righteousness.

The verse's final portion commands us to thank God the Father "through him. This phrase underscores that our relationship with God is possible only through Jesus Christ. Gratitude is not just a feeling; it is an attitude of continual acknowledgment that every blessing, opportunity, and ability we have comes from God. When we recognize that we belong to Christ, our natural response is to live in gratitude, reflecting His truth in everything we say and do.

 

What Does This Mean for Us Today?

Colossians 3:17 reminds us that Christianity is not just about belief but about how we live out our beliefs and model our faith moment by moment, day by day. Our words and actions should align with God's truth, reflecting the character of Christ in every situation. Whether at work, home, school, or our communities, we must ask ourselves: Does this honor Christ?

This verse also challenges us to maintain an attitude of gratitude in everything we do. Living for Christ is not a burden but a privilege, made possible by His sacrifice. A heart of thanksgiving fuels a life of obedience, shaping how we speak, act, and treat others. Demonstrating God's truth requires more than intellectual understanding: it demands a life fully committed to honoring Christ in every aspect.

 

Reflective Practice

1. In what areas of your life do you struggle to align your words and actions with the character of Christ?
2. How can you ensure that your daily decisions reflect the truth of God's Word?
3. What specific ways can you cultivate an attitude of thanksgiving as you live out your faith?

 

Concluding Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for calling us to live for You in all we do. Help us to align our words and actions with Your truth so that we may reflect the character of Christ in every aspect of our lives. Teach us to approach each day with gratitude, recognizing that all we have and all we are is because of You. May we live in a way that glorifies You and points others to Jesus. In His name, Amen.