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Put On Something New – Friday, 07/17/2026

Scripture: Colossians 3:12–17

Paul describes forgiveness using the language of clothing.

“Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”

That image matters because getting dressed is something we do repeatedly.

Forgiveness is not always one dramatic moment. Often, it is something we put on again.

Today, I choose patience.
Today, I refuse to rehearse the insult.
Today, I will not return harm for harm.
Today, I will set a boundary without hatred.
Today, I will remember that I am beloved by God.

Paul begins by calling the community “chosen, holy, and beloved.” Identity comes before instruction.

We do not forgive to earn God’s love.

We practice forgiveness because we are already held in God’s love.

And forgiveness is not the only thing we put on. We also put on compassion, humility, gentleness, patience, and love.

Sometimes the next step is not “feel completely forgiving.”

Sometimes the next step is simply: “Choose one Christlike response today.”

Practice: Choose one word from Colossians 3:

Compassion.
Kindness.
Humility.
Gentleness.
Patience.
Forgiveness.
Love.

Write it somewhere visible and ask, “What would it look like to wear this today?”

Prayer: Loving God, remind me that I am chosen and beloved before I do anything right. Clothe me today with compassion, patience, humility, and love. When forgiveness feels too large, show me the next faithful response. Amen.