File: /pub/resources/text/Our.Daily.Bread/db940801.txt
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OUR DAILY BREAD                               Monday, August 1, 1994
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READ:  Colossians 3:12-17

                          "IS MY UNIFORM ON?"

               Put on Tender mercies, kindness, humility,
                         meekness, longsuffering.

                             Colossians 3:12

Ken Robinson, who is now a pastor, at one time served as a police 
officer. He said people treated him differently when he was in uniform 
than when he was off duty and wearing plain clothes.  Something about 
the badge and "blues" gained him instant respect and authority.

He was often addressed as "Sir."  When he told people something, they 
believed him.  And when he gave an order, they were quick to obey.  
Robinson concluded, "I guess the clothes made the difference.  And in 
uniform, I acted with more confidence."

In Colossians 3, the apostle Paul told followers of Christ to put on a 
new uniform.  First he described the clothes we are to "put off" (vv. 
8-9).  Then he told us what kind of uniform we are to "put on" (vv. 12-
14).  In place of anger, wrath, slander, dirty language, and lies, we 
are to put on mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, 
forgiveness, and love.

Most people respond positively to someone with these virtues.  Their 
respect grows,  They talk and act differently toward such a person.  
They listen to his words, acknowledge his authority, and are drawn to 
the God he represents.

What you wear makes a big difference.  So ask yourself this question:  
Do I have my spiritual uniform on?


   Lord, may I live that all may see
   The love of Christ revealed in me,
   And help me flee all sin and shame
   Lest others scoff at Your dear name.

                                 --DJD

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
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Can people tell that Christ is in you before you tell them?

The Bible in One Year:  2 Kings 20-21


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