“To all the saints and faithful brethren in Christ, which are at Colosse: Grace be unto you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love which you have to all the saints, for the Hope which is laid up for you in Heaven, whereof you heard in the Word of the Truth of the Gospel.”
Colossians 1:2-5
When Jesus comes to live within our hearts, He brings everything He is and has with Him so He can share them with us.
Through the years there’s been much debate on whether or not it’s “sola scriptura” (Scriptures only), “sola fide” (faith only), “sola gracia” (grace only), etc. Likewise, much debate and division has occurred between the adherents of Calvinism (everything is “predestined”) and Arminianism (everything is “free will”).
Consequently, any serious-minded Bible student has often found himself shaking his head, becoming increasingly perplexed (often to the point of despair) and wanting to throw up his hands and quit.
But, today’s Manna helps us gain new perspective on it all. And, we’d do well to anchor our souls (and faith) here and then move on with renewed vigor.
What is this simple Truth?
Sola Christo.
Christ alone.
Or, another way to put it is the way Watchman Nee did one time in a message that became a book: Christ, the Sum of All Spiritual Things.
Have you ever noticed the Apostle Paul always starts his epistles with some form of the words “Grace and peace be unto you”? Why did he do that? Simply because he knew when Grace reigns in our hearts, Peace follows.
Likewise, when this Grace—which is rooted in “faith in Christ Jesus”—it expresses itself in “love for all the saints.” This may not be easy at times. . .especially when we rub each other the wrong way. . .but His unearnable Love reminds us, as someone said, “Except for the Grace of God there go I.”
And, when His Grace is operational in our lives we live with calm confidence because of “the Hope which is laid up for us in Heaven.” Isn’t it wonderful to know you have a “Home prepared,” Pilgrim (Jn.14:1-3)? Isn’t it wonderful to know the same One Who “by His abundant Mercy has begotten us again unto a lively/living Hope because of Jesus’ Resurrection from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible, undefiled and never fades away, reserved for us in Heaven” (I Pet. 1:3b-4)?
Yes, that’s wonderful. Simply, beautifully wonderful. May the Holy Spirit calm our hearts and minds today as we focus on Christ. . .His Presence. . .Promises. . .and Power in our lives. He is Grace Incarnate. And, He brings with Him all we’ll need for today.
By Tom Smith Morning Manna Dated December 2, 2009
