Clothe Ourselves with Virtue

How can we clothe ourselves with virtue? For that matter, how can we “put on love” as instructed in Colossians 3:14? And note that Romans 13:14 tells us that we have “put on Christ,” as does Galatians 3:27.

And what virtues are we encouraged by God’s Word to put on?

¹²Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. (Col 3:12 NIV)

And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. ¹⁵Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. (Col 3:14-15 NIV)

Your love must be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. ¹⁰Be devoted to each other with mutual affection. Excel at showing respect for each other. (Rom 12:9-10 ISV)

. . . with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love . . . (Eph 4:2 NKJV)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, ²³gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. (Gal 5:22-23 NASB)

Wow! This is an impressive list of virtues and good traits to pursue and to practice.

In the natural realm, when we want to be clothed, it is a conscious act of the will. Our clothes don’t fly through the air and attach themselves to us, right? We have to physically maneuver ourselves into the clothes, and then button or snap or zip them into place. And we have to choose exactly what items we want to wear each and every day.

As believers and followers of Jesus, we must be just as deliberate about what virtues we choose to use in every circumstance and situation in our lives. We must decide to be peacemakers, just as we must choose to be kind, humble, gentle, patient, peace-loving, joyful, faithful, and self-controlled.

As we make the decision each new day to follow Jesus, we must make the decision in every circumstance and life situation about how to react to our current challenges or trials.

In answer to our prayers to Him, the Lord will give us the grace and power that we need to weave these virtues into our lives. The Holy Spirit will guide us if we yield to Him in humility and obedience.

The Holy Spirit is the only One who can teach us and transform us into the image of Christ. And best of all, He can be trusted to guide us lovingly and faithfully. Hallelujah!

Live Humbly in Order to Honor God

The humility spoken of in the Bible means believing WHAT GOD SAYS ABOUT US over anyone else’s opinion, including our own! Humility is freedom from pride or arrogance, modesty. Humility allows us to be open to the possibility of making a mistake.

The Lord defends the humble, but he throws the wicked to the ground. (Ps 147:6 NCV) Because the Lord places such value upon humility, He chooses to defend humble people.

Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. (Mt 23:12 ESV) The Lord says that He exalts people who are humble.

Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. (Jas 4:10 NIV) Our God promises to lift up His humble servants.

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time . . . (1 Pet 5:6 NKJV) In His timing, the Lord shall exalt those who live humbly in His service.

Here are some characteristics of humble people:

Humility esteems God’s ways above everything; it recognizes that He is all-knowing, all-powerful, merciful and loving.
Humility stays mindful that none of us is greater than another.
Humility is knowing when to ask questions as well as when to ask for help.
Humility knows who we are and to Whom we belong.
Humility always involves honesty.
Humility means being willing to learn and being curious about others.
Humility implies not taking our desires, successes, or failing too seriously.
Humility is trusting that what God says concerning each of us is true.
Humility is believing that what God says is always true.

Humility is a viewpoint of spiritual modesty that comes from understanding our place in the world and God’s perfect plans for us. His plans for us are good to give us a future and a hope. (Jer 29:11) Thank the Lord most High!

Pleasing All Men in All Things

We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. (Rom 15:1 NIV)

Give no offense, either to the Jews or to the Greeks or to the church of God, ³³just as I also please all men in all things, not seeking my own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved. (1 Cor 10:32-33, emphasis added)

Don’t do anything for selfish purposes, but with humility think of others as better than yourselves. ⁴Instead of each person watching out for their own good, watch out for what is better for others. (Phil 2:3-4 CEB)

We’re instructed by God’s Word to watch out for what is best for others and pleasing to others. We’re also urged to avoid selfishness and encouraged to care for each other. That’s a tall order, right? The apostle Paul said that he pleased all men! Wow, he is a righteous example to us all.

So why did Paul ‘please all men’? He did it so that many people would be saved. By his pleasing and caring behavior toward others, he won many, many people to the gospel of Jesus Christ. All of those people accepted Jesus as their Savior and Lord. Paul didn’t do it in order to be a man-pleaser but in order to win souls to the Kingdom of God. His motivation was pleasing in God’s sight.

For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ. (Gal 1:10)

. . . not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart . . . (Eph 6:6)

Our assignment as followers and servants of Jesus Christ is to please God first, but also to demonstrate God’s love to all people. That means doing top-notch work in our jobs (even those who are self-employed). It also means finding ways to cooperate kindly with our earthly neighbors whether we have a house, condo, apartment, or a tent.

We also, as servants of Jesus, represent Him in our families, with our friends and within our communities and churches. As ambassadors for God’s Kingdom, we have the honor and privilege of being ‘the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.’ (2 Cor 2:15) May our conduct and our conversation be as a pleasant perfume to the lost and the hurting as well as to the Lord Jesus. Praise the Lord!

Light Versus Darkness

Jesus warned His followers that they would have the light for only a little while longer. We can judge for ourselves if we are living in the light or if we are living in darkness. Let’s see what the Word of God says.

If anyone claims, “I am living in the light,” but hates a fellow believer, that person is still living in darkness. (1 Joh 2:9 NLT)

If we catch ourselves disliking people or even hating them, we know that we’re operating in the dark. May God give us His grace to walk in the Light of Jesus Christ.

But anyone who hates a fellow believer is still living and walking in darkness. Such a person does not know the way to go, having been blinded by the darkness. (1 Joh 2:11 NLT)

The verse above shows us what it’s like to have been blinded by darkness.

At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. (Tit 3:3 NIV)

The book of Titus, chapter 3 reminds us what we were like before we accepted Jesus Christ as our Savior. Titus urged his readers to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work,to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men. And then, verse 3 tells us that we were at one time disobedient, deceived, enslaved in sin, and living in malice and hatred.

Then Jesus said to them, “A little while longer the light is with you. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you; he who walks in darkness does not know where he is going. (Joh 12:35)

Jesus, our example and beloved Savior, reminds us to walk in the light while it is still available. Those who walk in darkness don’t know where they’re going, and get off of the path of righteousness.

One way to remain in the light is to read and to meditate upon the Word of God. Another test of walking in the light is our obedience to the Scriptures:

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. (Phil 4:8) Let us be obedient to God by meditating upon these worthwhile and noble truths. Jesus told us: “Be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (Joh 16:33) Trust in His overcoming light even when darkness seems to surround everything. God bless you.

As a Little Child

Now, O Lord my God, You have made Your servant king instead of my father David, but I am a little child; I do not know how to go out or come in. (1 Kgs 3:7, emphasis added)

This verse in 1 Kings reflects the wisdom of Solomon—who considered himself as a little child in comparison to the wisdom and the eternal knowledge of God.

Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it. (Mk 10:15)

“Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Mt 18:3-4)

What do you think are the characteristics of a little child that Jesus is referring to in these passages? Here are some ideas to consider. Very young children were, in ancient, biblical times:

Humble and not envious of each other;
Did not think about advancing themselves to a place of power;
Didn’t have status or rights; and
Were completely dependent upon the good will of others to care for them.

Jesus humbles Himself in identifying with the little child. Jesus came to meet the needs of all those who are marginal, needy, and powerless. He came to save the lost—and there are many ways to be “lost.”

Jesus says that the way that WE should respond to such marginal, needy people is the same way that we respond to HIM. (see Mt 18:5) If we love Jesus, we should show love and concern for the lost. Jesus wants to remind us of the spiritual nature of His kingdom, and desires that we be heavenly-minded.

The Bible says that we are strangers and pilgrims upon the earth (Heb 11:13) because our King is a heavenly King, and our country is with our heavenly King.

As we submit our lives to the guidance and leading of the Holy Spirit, we shall suddenly move from earthly life into eternity—into humility and total dependence upon God. (1 Cor 15:51-52)

Check Out Your Clothes!

Do you realize that the Bible is concerned with how we clothe ourselves? Isn’t that an interesting and provoking idea?

For example:

We are invited to clothe ourselves with Christ in Romans 13:14.
We are instructed to dress modestly, with decency and propriety but also to clothe ourselves with good deeds in 1 Timothy 2:9-10.
Colossians 3:12-14 directs us to clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. It also prompts us to put on love which is the personality trait which binds all the others together in unity.

Out of all of these instructions, the encouragement to perform good works is probably one of the most frequently mentioned.

. . . having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation. (1 Pet 2:12 NKJV, emphasis added)

. . . who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works. (Tit 2:14 NKJV, emphasis added)

This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men. (Tit 3:8 NKJV, emphasis added)

The only way to truly clothe ourselves with good works and holy virtues is through the empowering and enabling grace that we receive through our ongoing relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. Walk in the “Clothing of Salvation”:

The love of God,
The grace from God,
Faith in God, which is a gift from Him (Eph 2:8-9)
The LIFE of God, which is the indwelling Holy Spirit (Pro 12:28; 1 Cor 6:19)

Cling to your relationship with Jesus even as a drowning man clings to a life preserver thrown to him by rescuers. Jesus provides new grace and strength for each new day, and He will never leave you nor fail you. Glory to His Holy Name!

Love in Action

My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. (1 Joh 3:18)

The Bible reminds us that we must put our love into action. How can we do that? Let’s see what the Bible has to say.

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. ³⁵By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” (Joh 13:34-35)

“If you love Me, keep My commandments.” (Joh 14:15)

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so?” (Mt 5:43-47)

Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. (Col 3:12-14)

All of the Bible passages that I’ve shown above talk about love being shown by actions. The Lord asks us to demonstrate our love by:

Loving one another;
Obeying His commandments;
Loving our enemies; blessing those who curse us; doing good to those who hate us; and praying for them;
Putting on tender mercy, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; and
Bearing with one another and forgiving one another.

Love (the bond of perfection) binds all of the qualities of goodness together—which means that love is the source from which all good character traits proceed. Love motivates, sustains, and unites the presence of all good qualities of character.

Essentially, in living this way we demonstrate the concept of putting on Christ.

For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. (Gal 3:27)

The Lord reminded us in His Word that GOD IS LOVE. (1 Joh 4:8) The Lord acts upon His own perfect love for us by constantly surrounding us with His love, grace and blessings.

For more verses about love in action, see: Joh 15:9-10, 13; Rom 5:8; 1 Joh 2:3-6; 3:10-11; 4:7-12; 4:17-20.

Humility and Wisdom

Humility and wisdom are two attributes that are praised in the Scriptures. Blessings are frequently mentioned in connection with them.

When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. (Pro 11:2 NIV) Humility and wisdom are frequent companions!

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. (Jas 3:13 NIV) This verse informs us that humility comes from wisdom. As a matter of fact, a person with humility coupled with the fear of the Lord will experience riches, honor, and life. (Pro 22:4)

Toward the scorners He is scornful, but to the humble He gives favor. The wise will inherit honor, but fools get disgrace. (Pro 3:34-35 ESV) To people who are humble, the Lord gives favor; and the Lord bestows honor upon the wise.

Only we are capable of humbling ourselves; no one else can do it for us. When we humble ourselves, the Lord promises to exalt us. (Jas 4:10 NKJV) The Bible reminds us that if we don’t humble ourselves, the Lord will do it for us. (Mt 23:12 ESV)

James 1:5 tells us that if we lack wisdom, we should ask God for it because He will generously answer our prayer. Scriptures state repeatedly the many blessings that God bestows upon those who are wise. See Ps 111:10; Pro 3:13-18; 4:6-7; 14:16; 16:16; 24:3-7; Lk 21:15; Jas 3:17.

Because the end of the ages is approaching, all believers must live carefully and intentionally for the Lord. Let us each take inventory of our strengths and our weaknesses; and if we are lacking in wisdom or humility, take steps to mend our ways.

Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. (Eph 5:15-16 ESV)

Yield to the Lord

The Lord reminds us to “submit to Him” which means to relinquish or hand over control of our lives to Him. This can be a real challenge for us to do while we live on this earth.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; ⁶in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. (Pro 3:5-6 NIV, underscoring added)

Let’s look at several more passages from the Bible in order to get a clearer picture.

Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. (Pro 16:3 NIV) When we commit our actions to the Lord, we place them in His hands and trust Him to:

Bless these actions;,
Bring Himself glory through them; and
Uphold our plans.

Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” Whenever you turn to the right hand or whenever you turn to the left. (Isa 30:21) This passage reminds us that the Lord leads us and guides us by the voice of His Spirit. He will bless us and prosper us as we yield to Him, and obey His voice..

Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the Lord your God, Who teaches you to profit, Who leads you by the way you should go.” (Isa 48:17) The Lord wishes us to defer to His leading and guidance; and as we do, He will cause us to prosper.

Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. (1 Cor 10:31) In accepting God’s will for our lives by being obedient to His leading, we will actually bring Him glory and honor. This is the goal to which we have been called.

A believer who will bow down in humility before the Lord, responding with submission and yieldedness to His guidance, will be blessed greatly by the Lord.

But He said, “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” (Lk 11:28, underscoring added – see also Jas 1:25) Our obedience to God is blessed.

Clothed With Humility

The Bible has much to teach believers on the topic of humility.

Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. (1 Pet 5:5, underscoring added)

By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches and honor and life. (Pro 22:4)

Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering . . . (Col 3:12, underscoring added)

. . . to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men. (Tit 3:2, underscoring added)

What is humility? It’s a covering of meekness, unpretentiousness, gentleness, and peacefulness. It’s a character trait that is evidenced by our willingness and ability to submit to God in obedience to His Word.

A humble person is one who accepts the chain of authority, and therefore is able to submit to their supervisor on the job. Another area where humility is evident is when a driver submits to the rules of the road, and obeys the traffic signs.

Humility is the quality that enables us to become good citizens, valuable church members, and contributors to society. Humility is seen in the lives of public figures that are admired, as well as in the lives and actions of certain Kings and Queens throughout history.

Jesus humbled Himself by obedience to His Father and dying a criminal’s death on the cross. (Phil 2:8) There is no greater example of humility.

One critical lesson to learn from the Scriptures is that we have the ability to HUMBLE OURSELVES! We are the only ones who can do it, and God will most certainly reward us for our obedience to Him.

Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up. (Jas 4:10)

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