Watch the Devotion

Based on Colossians 3:1-11

Whether you’re deployed, stateside, single, or managing life with a spouse and kids—military life demands focus. You know that distractions can be dangerous. The same is true for your faith.

In Colossians chapter 3, the apostle Paul says: “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God” (verse 1).

That’s not wishful thinking. This is your reality. If you are in Christ, you have already been raised with him. Through Baptism, your old self died, and your new life began—hidden with Christ in God. So Paul tells us to set our minds on things above—not just on what’s in front of us. Not just on the day-to-day demands. Not just on the deployment cycle, promotion list, or paycheck. But on Christ—he is your identity, your future, your life right now.

Now, Paul also says something very difficult: “Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature” (verse 5). And he then lists those things—sexual immorality, impurity, greed, anger, filthy language, lies. Sound familiar? Those things are all too common in military culture—in the barracks, on the ship or boat, in the motor pool or hangar, on the range, or out at the bar. And let’s be honest—they don’t just live “out there.” They live in us.

But here’s the good news: that’s your old self. That’s not who you are anymore. Paul says: “You have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator” (verses 9,10). You’re not cleaning yourself up to be accepted by God. You’ve already been made new. Now you live like who you already are in Christ.

That changes everything. If you’re single—it means your worth isn’t in your relationships or status, or what kind of car you drive or the clothes you wear. Your worth is in your Savior. If you’re married or raising kiddos—it means you don’t need to be perfect. Your family needs you to be faithful. If you lead others—it means leading with humility, compassion, and grace—not pride or performance.

And when you fail—and you will—return to where your new life began. Remember your baptism. Go back to the cross. See that there Jesus died for your sins. You are forgiven! Go to his empty tomb. See that he rose to give you life for eternity and a new life right now! And because he lives, he still walks with you, wherever you serve.

So, set your heart on where you’re headed. Because Christ is your life. And when he appears—you will appear with him in glory. Until that day comes—keep your eyes up.

Prayer:

Gracious God, we thank you for the United States Coast Guard, established in 1790, whose birthday we will celebrate on August 4th. Bless those who serve to “ensure our Nation’s maritime safety, security, and stewardship.” Grant them courage, wisdom, and protection with your almighty arms. Keep them “Always Ready” to protect, defend, and save. Guide their mission always. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.