Christ is the visible likeness of the invisible God. He is the first-born Son, superior to all created things. For through him God created everything in heaven and on earth, the seen and the unseen things, including spiritual powers, lords, rulers, and authorities. God created the whole universe through him and for him. Christ existed before all things, and in union with him all things have their proper place. He is the head of his body, the church; he is the source of the body’s life. He is the first-born Son, who was raised from death, in order that he alone might have the first place in all things. For it was by God’s own decision that the Son has in himself the full nature of God. Through the Son, then, God decided to bring the whole universe back to himself. God made peace through his Son’s sacrificial death on the cross and so brought back to himself all things, both on earth and in heaven.

Colossians 1:15-20

We have so many God-given talents, but the real question is how we use those talents. Do we use them to witness for Christ, or to pat ourselves on the back. When we live by God’s design, we will be successful in carrying out His plan for our lives. Paul prayed that we would be filled with the knowledge of His will. He prayed for us to have wisdom and understanding. But Paul also prayed for us to act. We need to live and act.

To know life’s purpose, you must know life’s creator.

Our Daily Bread – April 24, 2003