By: Cheryl Anderson

Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.  Colossians 3:12-14 NLT

As I was reading this passage on what to wear, I was reminded of a TV show from back in 2010 called “What Not to Wear”. Did any of you watch this? It was terrifying! Contestants were nominated by their friends (thanks?) to receive a wardrobe makeover! That all sounds great, but then the contestant was secretly videotaped for 2 weeks to point out the unflattering hot mess of their wardrobe! Next, the contestant was offered $5,000 to throw out their wardrobe and purchase only what the professional team recommended!  

It was so hard for people to let go of their poor clothing combinations because they were used to the rut they were in or, honestly, they did not know it was not working for them. Can you relate? I can!  

Now let’s take a look at how we are dressing for success in our walk with Jesus. Paul says in Colossians 3:12 that we should clothe ourselves with mercy, kindness, gentleness and patience. Seems like the fruit of the Spirit showing up again! And if that isn’t enough, he adds in verse 13 that we should forgive anyone who has offended us! That means to ‘not wear’ offense on your sleeve every time someone pokes you, Cheryl! And, he really throws down the challenge by adding in verse 14 that, MOST of all, to put on love as your best dress! Wow! I think I may need a spiritual wardrobe makeover from the Expert! How about you? 

I have gotten used to some of my unattractive clothes and haven’t realized it’s not working! I want to be attractive to a hurting world and not easily offended. I want to have a gentle answer to calm the situation! The good news is that Jesus gives us a wardrobe makeover every day! His mercy is new every day! Phil 1:6 says He will complete the good work He started in us! He is not shocked that we have missed the mark! He is at work in us to help us be kind to unkind people, be patient with those who are difficult and to love the unlovely! Let’s ask Him to convict us of what NOT to wear and help us dress for success!