This verse carries weight; to truly represent Christ, we would think it means being perfect and sinless, never making a mistake. But that's not the case, God knows that isn't possible for us, so He would never ask it. To be a representative means to "act in the best interest of the person they represent, rather than their own." This means that in every decision we make, from how we respond to others to how we spend our time, we seek to do what pleases God, not ourselves. We surrender our desires and our plans to God to let His will be done in our lives and bring Him glory.
Representatives are also delegated the authority to fulfill specific tasks. God empowers us and gives us authority to fulfill the specific tasks and assignments He has for us. Oftentimes, we feel like what God has called us to do is beyond our ability, but that's because we are meant to rely on Him and His strength to sustain us, not our own. We are empowered through Him. It requires conscious decision and dedication to deny our flesh and choose to represent Jesus to others, but He empowers us to do this, not by our own strength, but through His. Always remember to give thanks to God in all circumstances.
Prayer:
Lord, we thank you for your blessings and your peace that surpasses all understanding. We ask that you help us to rely on you alone and to do your will above our own. We surrender our plans and desires to you, God, just use us for your glory. Help us to use the self-control that you have given us to consciously choose to deny the desires of our flesh and seek to please you in everything we do. We thank you for your unconditional love. In Jesus name, Amen.
Verse:
And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father. Colossians 3:17 NLT