The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

Colossians 3:12-16, “So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience; 13 bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. 14 Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. 15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.

Have you ever had a confrontation with someone that concluded in a less-than-friendly manner? I have every reason to believe that you have. Honestly, I can identify neither the differences nor the personalities; yet, almost everyone I know has, over time, encountered a difference with someone. The solution is always “forgiveness.”

The Apostle Paul instructs us, as with the believers in that Colossian Church, to show and demonstrate compassion and kindness in a truly humble manner, while simultaneously being both gentle and patient. Yes, it’s a tall order. Just saying “I’m sorry” or “I was wrong” is quite difficult for some people. (We are always so certain we are right!)

Yet, those who truly are right ought to be first in demonstrating humility toward others. Love, of course, is the overall bond that unites opposing parties. Love always produces peace. And peace arrives quickly when Christ rules in the human heart. Stay in the Word! It is the surest option for correcting misunderstandings. Furthermore, you will sing from a pure and thankful heart that reassures your alliance with the Savior, Jesus Christ.

Heartily in Christ,

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.

United States of America

“We will never know that Christ is all we need, until He becomes all that we have.” –Corrie ten Boom