The idea of a new beginning is something that appeals to all of us. John the Baptizer had come with a message of change that would lead to a new beginning. Jesus in His ministry taught of being born again and a new way of living. Paul had himself experienced a new beginning and sometimes wrote in his letters about the newness of the Christian life. In Colossians 3 and 4 Paul gives practical advice on how to live this new life in Christ.

The new life that Paul was writing about is challenging because it is based on change. It’s not just a minor adjustment either, but rather a radical change in the way we think and act. It begins with a change of heart and a change in emphasis from earthly things to things above. Once that is accomplished, the rest will be much easier.