Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
—Colossians 3:1-17

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Living Alive In Christ
By Jennifer Kane

She used to chase the night life,
Now she walks in morning light,
She gave up all the chaos,
Now she’s clothed in what is right.

She doesn’t follow feelings,
She walks by faith, not sight,
And when she lifts her hands to heaven,
She’s blazing in His light!

He washed away her past,
Gave her a brand-new name—
No more guilt, no shame!

She’s living alive in Christ,
No longer bound by lies,
Grace is her battle cry,
She’s living alive in Christ!

Clothed in His love and peace,
He gave her soul release—
She’s dancing in the light,
She’s living alive in Christ!

He used to run with shadows,
Now he walks the narrow road,
The Word is now his anchor,
And heaven is his home.

He doesn’t fear tomorrow,
He knows who holds the throne,
He’s shouting out the gospel
And bringing lost sheep home!

The chains are on the floor,
He ain’t who he was before—
He’s free forevermore!

He’s living alive in Christ,
Brought from the grave to life,
No more the devil’s lies—
He’s living alive in Christ!
With purpose in his step,
Forgiven every debt,
He walks in Jesus’ light,
He’s living alive in Christ!

No turning back, no turning back,
The cross before, the world behind—
They’ve found their joy, they’ve found their strength,
Alive in Him, they’ll always shine!

We’re living alive in Christ,
Redeemed and justified,
The Spirit is our guide,
We’re living alive in Christ!

From death to victory,
Forever we are free,
We shine like morning light—
We’re living alive in Christ!

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Scripture: Colossians 3:1-17

When we are united with Christ, our focus shifts. The treasures of this world—fame, wealth, comfort—lose their grip on us as we begin to seek what is eternal. A life in Christ is a daily decision to lift our eyes above the noise, to desire what pleases God rather than what pleases self. It is not escapism, but realignment. Our true life, hidden with Christ, gives us purpose that goes beyond the temporary.

Life in Christ requires a radical break with sin. We don’t manage sin—we put it to death. Sexual immorality, greed, anger, slander—these are not simply mistakes; they are evidence of an old way of livingg. Paul reminds us that Christ transforms not only our destiny but our daily decisions. We are being renewed in knowledge to reflect our Creator. We can’t cling to Christ while clinging to the graveclothes of our past.

Paul gives us a spiritual wardrobe—garments fitting for those made new. livingg in Christ isn’t just about what we’ve left behind, but what we now put on. These virtues aren’t optional. They reflect the heart of Christ. Above all, we are to wear love, the belt that binds it all together. Just as clothes are visible, so our character should reflect the inward change to everyone around us.

Peace, word, and worship—these are the daily rhythms of someone walking in Christ. When we’re ruled by peace, we respond differently. When Scripture fills our hearts, it shapes our thoughts, songs, and speech. When everything is done in Jesus’ name, even the most mundane tasks become worship. Life in Christ is not compartmentalized—it’s comprehensive.

Invite Christ into every part of your day—from chores to conversations. As you go through today, whisper: “For you, Jesus.” Let that phrase guide your tone, thoughts, and choices.

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Lord Jesus, thank You for raising me to new life. Help me put off the old and clothe myself in You. Let Your peace rule my heart, and may Your word dwell richly in me. Transform me to reflect Your love and truth in all I do. In Your name, Amen.

July 26 2025