Colossians 2:6–8 Rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith… and overflowing with thankfulness.’ (v7)
Paul never forgets that people flourish in their faith in the triune God through His merciful action, for although we respond to the Lord’s loving invitation, He is the one who effects change.
We can see this clearly in verses 6 and 7 by digging into the grammar. Paul recognises that the new Christians have received Christ as Lord and admonishes them to live their lives in him.
Then note the passive form of the verbs that follow – he longs that they would be rooted in Christ, built up in Him and strengthened in their faith.
Through this choice of phrasing, we realise that the believers don’t bring about this transformation in their lives, but God builds them up and strengthens their faith.
Also note the active form of the next clause: ‘overflowing with thankfulness’ (v7). The Christian bubbles over in thankfulness, with a grateful heart signifying the Spirit within.
God’s transformation of us may not be something we realise is happening. The change might come slowly and, to us, imperceptibly.
Only when someone else notices the transformation – that we are more kind, thoughtful, caring and so on – do we realise that God has been at work.
We may have a lot more changing to do to become like Jesus, but those moments of revelation will bring us encouragement as we seek to follow Him.
Each day we can ask God to continue His work in our lives, that we might reflect His glory.
A Prayer To Make:
‘Father God, You build me and train me in the ways I should go. May I always yield to You, submitting to Your will and Your ways, for my good and Your glory. Amen.’
An Action To Take:
Notice the change in someone close, or not so close, to you, and write them a note (email, text, DM) to share this noticing.
Scripture To Consider:
1 Sam. 30:4–6; 1 Chr. 16:8–11; Isa. 41:8–10; Matt. 17:19–20
