“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:12-17

Lord Jesus, you have been so patient, gentle, generous and gracious to me in every part of my life. You give to me in an open-handed way when I have given to others with a closed fist. You forgive me without even batting an eye when I have often paused and struggled to forgive those who forgive me. You have sent people into my life to correct and rebuke me when I needed it, but I have often failed to speak up and speak into the lives of the people into whom you have sent me. Lord Jesus, control me and rule over my every thought and my every action today that I might be controlled by your grace and forgiveness for me. Control me by your peace so that I am working for peace. Work in me by your Word that I might be a tool of your Spirit in the lives of other people. You have called me to this. You are working in me for this. Guide, control, and rule over every part of my life by your grace, your mercy, and your peace. Rule over my heart and life today, dear Jesus. Amen.

The things that we have in and through Christ control, guide, and govern our every action toward all people and especially toward the body of Christ.