Dress for success is an age-old mantra. When I go into a store for a major purchase (my wife and I shopped for a new mattress recently) I expect to work with a well-dressed, nicely groomed salesperson. If I’m greeted by a slovenly host I’ll leave, even if the slob knows mattresses like Houdini knew magic. As we tested beds several stylish employees engaged with us. Those folks know that first impressions matter.

Did you know that dress for success is a Biblical concept as well? Paul told the Colossian church members to put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.

Picture exchanging a ratty outfit for fresh gear. Paul exhorts us to put away the practices of our old selves, the anger, slander and obscene talk of our original nature. The old self focuses instinctively upon ourselves to the exclusion of others, an insidious form of idolatry we find particularly alluring.

This new clothing comes through seeking the knowledge of the Creator. Jesus said, Seek first the kingdom of God. Paul reminded Roman believers to be transformed by the renewal of your mind. Change is possible. Our lives can shift to ones marked by compassion, kindness, humility and patience.

But doing so is a choice. With the power of the Holy Spirit we can exchange our wardrobe. The new attire won’t fade or wear out. In fact, the living apparel Paul references grows more vibrant the longer we wear it.

Dress for success. Certainly a proven maxim, and also a wondrous truth made available to us by the kindness of our Creator.

Colossians 3:10; Matthew 6:33; Romans 12:2

Photo by Alexander Naglestad