Living the New Life
Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels
Colossians 3:16-17
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”
Paul gives us a vivid picture of what the transformed life looks like in practice. Notice he doesn’t say “occasionally read Scripture” or “think about God on Sabbath.” He says let Christ’s word dwell richly in you—like a resident who’s made themselves completely at home, filling every room.
The result of this rich indwelling? It overflows into community. We teach and admonish one another. The Christian life isn’t a solo performance—it’s a symphony where each person plays their part, encouraging and correcting in love.
And here’s something fascinating: Paul emphasizes music as a spiritual tool. Psalms, hymns, spiritual songs—these aren’t just aesthetic choices. Music bypasses our intellectual defenses and goes straight to the heart. It can lift us to worship or drag us into worldliness. What we sing (and listen to) shapes our inner world more than we realize.
The principle extends to everything: “Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Your work, your conversations, your recreation—all become acts of worship when done with Christ’s character and for His glory.
Challenge for Today
Audit your music consumption this week. What is “dwelling richly” in your mind through what you listen to? Is it drawing you closer to Christ or subtly shaping you toward the world? Consider adding one hymn or worship song to your morning routine—let Scripture-saturated music set the tone for your day.
Remember: The goal isn’t legalism, but transformation. When Christ’s word truly dwells in us, it naturally changes what we want to hear, say, and do.
Posted by Ezra