Who Rules?
Every life answers the same question: Who’s in charge? The Apostle Paul’s words to the Colossians remind us that following Jesus means setting aside old habits, rejecting false masters, and letting Christ rule in our hearts.
A Call to Set Our Minds on Christ
Paul writes, “Since you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God” (Colossians 3:1–2). This command isn’t abstract. To set our minds on heaven means to align daily thoughts, choices, and desires with Christ.
Like Norman Vincent Peale once wrote, “Change your thoughts and you change your world.” Paul teaches the same truth—transformed thinking reshapes attitudes, words, and actions. When we fix our eyes on Christ, our lives begin to reflect His reality.
Putting Off the Old Self
Paul urges believers to “put to death” the earthly nature: immorality, greed, anger, malice, slander, filthy language, and lies (Colossians 3:5–9). These habits lurk in the shadows of our lives. Left unchecked, they distort relationships and pull us away from God.
Greed in particular functions as idolatry. It disguises itself as ambition or desire, but at its core greed worships self over God. When our desires spin out of control, we end up chasing status, wealth, or pleasure at any cost. Paul’s warning is clear: greed is not just a problem—it is a rival god.
Putting On the New Self
The Christian life doesn’t stop with “don’t.” Paul turns to the positive: “Put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator” (Colossians 3:10). This new wardrobe includes compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, and above all, love (Colossians 3:12–14).
This process is daily. It takes renewal, surrender, and dependence on the Holy Spirit. Each choice to forgive, extend kindness, or practice humility builds credibility as witnesses to Christ.
Letting Christ Rule with Peace
Paul concludes with a call: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts” (Colossians 3:15). Rule here means “to act as an umpire.” Christ’s peace should make the final call in decisions, relationships, and conflicts. Gratitude anchors that peace, creating a unified church marked by joy and thankfulness.
Practical Takeaways
- Ask the right question. Who rules in your life today—Christ or something else?
- Name the lurkers. Identify hidden sins like greed, lust, or anger and bring them into the light.
- Choose your wardrobe. Practice mercy, kindness, patience, and love daily.
- Let peace decide. Allow Christ’s peace to guide your decisions and relationships.
Bottom Line
The Christian life is not about adding Christ to a mix of culture, politics, or personal agendas. It is Christ alone—sufficient, supreme, and sovereign.
Next Steps
If you’re ready to take the next step in letting Christ rule in your life, click here to get connected.
