Dressed for Success

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, 

clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

Colossians 3:12

The last few weeks have been all about costumes at our house. The two youngest celebrated five days dedicated to saying no to drugs last week. They wore all red, dressed in 1950s inspired garb and donned crazy socks, pajamas and tie dye on various days. My second oldest's school is doing the same this week. Saturday was my oldest daughter's choir dessert show with wardrobe changes symbolizing ancient Greece, modern Africa, a day at the beach and Mary Poppins. And of course Wednesday is the fall holiday dedicated to dress up. Tomorrow night my girls will be Princess Jasmine, a butterfly, Minnie Mouse and Belle from Beauty and the Beast.

When you wear a costume, more than your outfit is changed. Your ensemble is accessorized with inner qualities. Something about dressing up calls the deep parts of heart. 

And this phenomenon isn't limited to women and little girls.

Little boys are braver when dressed as a super hero.

Young men hit the ball farther, tackle harder and run faster in their uniforms.

Men are more confident when wearing a suit.

But even better than a costume, athletic gear or fine clothes is wearing the qualities of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. When I wear the clothes of God's choosing...

My marriage is richer.

My parenting is smoother.

My relationships are deeper.

Following closely after God's heart makes us dressed for success.

What quality do your loved one's most need you to wear today - compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness or patience?