In our daily lives, we often find ourselves asking the question "What to wear?" as we prepare for work, social events, or even church. But have we considered what we're wearing spiritually? Just as we carefully choose our physical attire, we must be intentional about clothing ourselves in Christ and His righteousness.

The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Colossians, provides us with a powerful metaphor for our spiritual wardrobe. He reminds us that if we have been raised with Christ, we should seek the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. This means setting our minds on heavenly things, not on earthly matters.

But what does this look like in practice? Paul gives us a clear list of things to "take off" – the old self with its practices – and what to "put on" – the new self, renewed in the image of its Creator.

First, let's consider what we need to remove from our spiritual closet:

1. Sexual immorality

2. Impurity

3. Lust

4. Evil desires

5. Greed (which Paul equates to idolatry)

6. Anger

7. Wrath

8. Malice

9. Slander

10. Filthy language

11. Lying

These behaviors and attitudes belong to our old nature, the person we were before Christ. They have no place in the life of a believer. Just as we wouldn't wear dirty, torn clothes to an important event, we shouldn't clothe ourselves in these sinful practices as we walk with Christ.

Instead, Paul urges us to put on our new wardrobe in Christ:

1. Compassion

2. Kindness

3. Humility

4. Gentleness

5. Patience

6. Forbearance (bearing with one another)

7. Forgiveness

And above all these virtues, we are to put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Love is like the outer garment that completes our spiritual outfit, visible to all and holding everything else in place.

This transformation isn't just about following a set of rules. It's about allowing the peace of Christ to rule in our hearts and being thankful in all circumstances. When we clothe ourselves in these Christ-like attributes, we reflect His character to the world around us.

But how do we make this change? It starts with recognizing that we have died to our old selves and our lives are now hidden with Christ in God. This means actively choosing to "put to death" the earthly nature within us. It's a daily decision to deny ourselves and follow Christ.

One practical way to do this is by filling our minds with godly things. Instead of dwelling on our past sins or indulging in worldly entertainment, we can immerse ourselves in Scripture, listen to uplifting music, and engage in conversations that glorify God. Just as catchy jingles stick in our heads, so too can God's Word take root in our hearts when we intentionally focus on it.

Another crucial aspect of this spiritual makeover is unity within the body of Christ. When we truly love one another and forgive as Christ has forgiven us, we create a powerful testimony to the world. Disunity among believers can destroy our witness, but love and forgiveness build it up.

It's important to remember that this process of "putting on" Christ is not about perfection, but direction. We will clothe ourselves in His righteousness even if we continually tumble and fail at times, but the key is to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus and to continually clothe ourselves in His righteousness as we navigate life.

As we navigate life, we may encounter temptations to revert to our old ways of thinking and behaving. The world around us often promotes values that are contrary to Christ's teachings. But we must remember that we are citizens of heaven, living as ambassadors for Christ on earth. Our spiritual attire should reflect our heavenly citizenship.

This doesn't mean we withdraw from the world. On the contrary, when we are clothed in Christ's love and compassion, we are equipped to engage with others in a way that draws them to Him. Our kindness, patience, and forgiveness can be a powerful witness in a world that often lacks these qualities.

Moreover, as we put on these Christ-like attributes, we find that they begin to transform us from the inside out. The more we practice compassion, the more naturally it flows from us. The more we choose forgiveness over resentment, the easier it becomes to let go of offenses. This is the work of the Holy Spirit in us, conforming us to the image of Christ.

In all of this, we must maintain an attitude of gratitude. When we are thankful for what God has done in our lives, it becomes easier to clothe ourselves in His character. Thankfulness shifts our focus from our circumstances to God's goodness, helping us to keep our minds set on things above.

As we consider what to wear spiritually each day, let's remember that we have been given new life in Christ. We have the privilege and responsibility to clothe ourselves in His righteousness, letting His love shine through us to a world in need.

So, what will you wear today? Will you choose to put on compassion when faced with someone's shortcomings? Will you clothe yourself in patience when things don't go as planned? Will you wrap yourself in the love of Christ as you interact with others?

The choice is yours. But remember, when we intentionally clothe ourselves in Christ, we not only reflect His glory to the world, but we also experience the joy and peace that comes from living in harmony with our true identity in Him.

May we all be intentional about our spiritual wardrobe, putting off the old and putting on the new, as we walk in the newness of life that Christ offers us.