Rooted or Restless?
It is no secret that the world is moving at a faster pace than ever before in history. It is filled with shifting priorities and endless distractions. What we long for in this life is some stability in our ever-changing lives. I am referring to a foundation that can withstand the pressures of life and provide purpose through the highs and lows we experience. The letter written by the Apostle Paul to the city of Colossae provides us with timeless wisdom on who Jesus is, how he can transform us, and what it means to live a life that is rooted in Christ.
This writing is based on a sermon series titled "Rooted in Christ: Lessons from Colossians." Let us explore five key truths from this incredible letter that can help us build a solid foundation in Christ.
Who is Christ (Colossians 1.15-23)
For Christians, our foundation is built not on rules or regulations but on Jesus Christ. Paul declares in his letter that Christ is the “visible image of an invisible God” and that he is “the firstborn over all of creation" (Col 1:15). It is in the image of Jesus that we see our perfectly revealed Creator. He gives us a clear picture of who God is and what His character entails through the embodied Jesus. He shows us that our God is compassionate, wise, and powerful, perfectly revealed in the fullness of Jesus (Col 1:19).
Paul goes on to say that Christ is the creator and sustainer of life: “For in him all things were created… all things have been created through him and for him" (Col 1:16). Paul emphasizes this truth to highlight that not only is Christ the source of life, but he is also the purpose of life. Everything that exists is meant to glorify him.
Point of Reflection: What does it mean for your faith that Jesus is supreme over all things, including your struggles and triumphs? Take a moment to reflect on where you need to recenter your focus on him as the foundation of your life.
How do we Stay Rooted? (Colossians 2.6-15)
Paul uses the imagery of a root system to explain why we should be grounded in Christ. He encourages his followers to be “rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith" (Col 2:7). Paul employs this powerful imagery because of the strength of a tree’s root system. The correlation here is that the strength of our spiritual lives depends on how deeply rooted we are in Christ.
The better question here is not why we should do it but rather how we do it. We are rooted in Christ when we continually draw from his strength, truth, and love. Paul warns against putting our trust in the “hollow and deceptive philosophies” of this world that can pull us away from Christ (Col 2:8). These distractions look different for each of us as they manifest uniquely in our lives. We may pursue success or approval from others in this life; for some, it is the temptation to rely on human wisdom rather than God’s Word.
Point of Reflection: Evaluate where your “roots” are planted. Are you nourishing your soul with prayer, scripture, and community, or are you relying on unstable foundations? Deepen your connection to Christ by prioritizing time with him daily.
What does Transformation Look Like? (Colossians 3.1-17)
In modern translations, the heading for this section of the letter is “Living a new life.” Paul vividly describes what it means to live a transformed life. He calls the believers to “set your hearts on things above” (Col 3.1) and “put to death” earthly desires such as greed, anger, and impartiality (Col 3.5). Being transformed in Christ starts with a renewed mindset and a willingness to let go of old habits.
But Paul is not only telling us what to put off but also instructing us on what to put on. We are to clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. And above all, put on love.” (Col 3:12-14) This goes beyond behavior modification; it’s about living out our identity as God’s chosen people.
Point of Reflection: What are the “old self” habits you need to leave behind? How can you intentionally practice virtues like compassion and humility this week? Transformation is not an overnight process but rather small, consistent steps that lead to lasting change.
Christ in Our Relationships (Colossians 3.18-4.1)
One of the defining characteristics of the Christian faith is the relational aspect of our faith. Paul addresses how our new life in Christ should shape our home and workplace relationships. In this section, he speaks to husbands, wives, parents, children, and even our relationships at work. He calls us to live in a way that honors Christ in these relationships.
The bidding aspect of his teaching is love and mutual respect. Husbands are called to love their wives sacrificially, and parents are urged not to alienate their children but to encourage them (Col 3.19, 21). In our work relationships, we are reminded to work “as for the Lord” (Col 3.23). This principle applies to both employees and employers.
Point of Reflection: Think about one of these relationships in which you could more fully express Christ's love. This could mean offering forgiveness, practicing patience, or showing appreciation. When Christ is the center of our relationships, they become powerful testimonies of his transforming work.
Prayer and Witness (Colossians 4.2-6)
At the end of his letter, Paul calls for prayer and intentional witness. He wants people to be devoted to prayer, alert of mind, and have a thankful heart (Col 4.2). When we pray, we do not just ask God for things; we reorient our hearts toward God’s heart and purpose for our lives.
When we focus on God’s purpose, it enables a more profound witness in our lives. This serves as a testament to all that God is doing within us, and the grace he has shown us is available to those around us as well. This is where witnessing becomes essential—it’s not about having all the answers but about living in a way that directs attention to him.
Point of Reflection: Are you willing to commit to praying for someone in your life who does not yet know about God’s grace? Look for opportunities to show them God’s love through your actions and words. Even the smallest gestures of kindness can open the door to a meaningful conversation about faith.
Conclusion: A Life that Flourishes
As we have seen with this short view of Paul’s letter, being rooted in Christ is not just a theological idea; it is a way of life. Jesus is supreme over everything, and we are deeply connected to him. Allowing his love to transform us comes from being rooted in him. It is about living with a purpose, bearing fruit, and reflecting his glory in a world that desperately needs him.
So, what does being rooted in Christ look like? It may mean taking a step of faith to prioritize him in your schedule. It could mean surrendering a part of your life that you have been holding on to for so long. Whatever that looks like in your life, just know that a life rooted in Christ is a life that flourishes.
Reflection Questions
Where are your roots planted right now?
What steps can you take to deepen your relationship with Christ?
How can you reflect his love and goodness in your relationships and daily interactions?
Let us choose to build our lives rooted in the one who created all things and for whom all things were created—because with those deep roots planted, we will never be shaken.
