by: Russell McLaughlin

Be All That You Can Be

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            Many of us remember the old Army slogan, “Be all you can be.” First launched in 1981, it ran for 20 years before being replaced by "Army of One". “Be all you can be” was revived in 2023 to inspire a new generation with the idea of limitless possibilities and purpose. That slogan is a pretty good summary of Colossians 3:5-14.

           To be all God wants us to be we must, “Put on the new man.” (Col.3: 10-11)  In Romans chapter 7, the Apostle Paul describes the constant struggle he had, to conform his outer life to inner desires. In Colossians 3:5-11, he gives us the picture of changing garments—laying aside the old, stained garments of sin and clothing ourselves with the new nature Christ has given us. This isn’t a one-time activity but a daily practice, shaping us day by day into Jesus’ image (Romans 8:29). The imagery of clothing is especially practical. Just as you don’t forget to get dressed in the morning, you shouldn’t forget to “put on” Christlike actions, attitudes, and character each day.

            In Colossians 3:12 -14 Paul encourages Christians to put on a heart of compassion; slip into kindness; cover ourselves with humility; wear the crown of meekness, inlaid with jewels of long suffering, forbearance, and forgiveness, and drape on the robe of love.

            Such love is the bond of perfectness, holding all the other virtues of the Christian life together so they can reach their divinely intended goal.  Jesus calls us to love one another as he loved us (John 13:34)

            Let’s remain faithful in “Putting on the new man.” Let’s be all we can be for God!