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15 And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.16 Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. 17 And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.--- Colossians 3:15-17 NLT Verse 15 - The word rule comes from the language of athletics: Paul tells us to let Christ’s peace be umpire or referee in our heart. Our heart is the center of conflict because there our feelings and desires clash---our fears and hopes, distrust and trust, jealousy and love. How can we deal with these constant conflicts and love as God wants? Paul explains that we must decide between conflicting elements by using the rule of peace. Which choice will promote peace in our souls and in our churches? For more on the peace of Christ, see Philippians 4:7. Verse 16 - Thankful people can worship wholeheartedly. Gratitude opens our hearts to God’s peace and enables us to put on love. Discontented people constantly calculate what’s wrong with their lot in life.To increase your thankfulness, take an inventory of all you have (including your relationships, memories, abilities, and family, as well as material possessions). Use the inventory for prayers of gratitude. Quit rushing around, instead, take time to reflect on reasons for thanks. Celebrate God’s goodness to you, and ask in prayer for all your needs for the week ahead. Verse 17 - “Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus''means bringing honor to Christ in every aspect and activity of daily living. As a Christian, you represent Christ at all times---wherever you go and whatever you say. What impression do people have of Christ when they see or talk with you? What changes would you make in your life in order to honor Christ?--- Life Application Study Bible