Perfect Harmony

 “And above all these things, put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.”  (Colossians 3:14)

 We dress for each day in an orderly fashion; we don’t put on shoes then socks. In this passage, the apostle Paul instructs believers about the importance of our daily “wardrobe,” saying the most significant action is to put on love. But to what “things” was he referring? With what should we clothe ourselves, with love as the greater significance?

God is love. God chose us. God demands that we be holy as He is holy. To live in holiness, we must first clothe ourselves with mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience (v. 12). We should respect the fact that other people have faults, just as we do. If someone offends us, we should forgive them, just as God forgave us (v. 13). After donning these “garments,” the most excellent attribute we wear is the garment of love.

Let’s be honest. What good is a covering of love on a person concealing a selfish, rude, and hateful, prideful, and unforgiving heart? None. From such, God will not receive glory. So, what are we to do? Just as we usually clean-up before putting on fresh clothes, we are to “put to death the sinful things lurking within” (v. 5 NLT): sexual immorality, lust, evil desires, greediness, anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, dirty language, lying—these are things of our old sinful nature. Rid yourself of them!

When we dress correctly, love will bind us harmoniously together with fellow believers. If you don’t love others, you don’t know God, for God is love (1 John 4:8). Perfect harmony will not only honor Christ but also usher in His peace.