Anchor Our Lives in Jesus

– Ponderings:

For my devotional time this morning, I’m continuing the letter of Colossians. Yesterday we looked at Paul’s prayer for them. In the second chapter of this letter, Paul encourages them, now that they’re growing in the knowledge of Jesus, to put into action what they’ve learned. It’s time for them to live their faith.

“My counsel for you is simple and straightforward: Just go ahead with what you’ve been given. You received Christ Jesus; now live him. You’re deeply rooted in him. You’re well constructed upon him. You know your way around the faith. Now do what you’ve been taught. School’s out; quit studying the subject and start living it! And let your living spill over into thanksgiving … You don’t need a telescope, a microscope, or a horoscope to realize the fullness of Christ, and the emptiness of the universe without him. When you come to him, that fullness comes together for you, too. His power extends over everything.” (Colossians 2:6-10; The Message).

Paul gives us a simple yet profound instruction: as you have received Christ, live in him. Faith is not a one-time event, but a continuous journey, like a tree whose roots go deeper into the soil for nourishment and stability.

Paul uses the word “rooted” and the metaphor of tree roots to describe how we should anchor our lives in Jesus. Just as roots provide nourishment and stability to a tree, our spiritual roots in Christ offer us strength to withstand the trials and challenges we face in life. The world offers all kinds of options that promise fulfillment, but Paul warns that these are hollow and deceptive. True fullness can only be found in Christ, who alone is the source of life, wisdom, and power.

A tree that isn’t rooted will die for lack of nourishment or fall over when storms come. The same is true for us and faith. Are you rooted in Christ? Is your faith deeply grounded in him or is it swayed by what the world offers? Today, I encourage you to find something specific to thank God for in your life, recognizing His role in providing it. Begin to root your faith by realizing the difference it has made – and will make – in your life.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the difference Jesus has made in my life. Help me to live my life rooted and built up in him, drawing strength and nourishment from him. May my life reflect gratitude for all you have done, and may I continue to grow in faith and love for you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.