“For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.” – Colossians 1:19-20

Scripture reading: John 4:7-15 & Colossians 1:15-20

Once again in his letter, Paul brings the idea of fullness into focus – “In Christ all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell.” We need not look for another, or rather seek without ever finding (Belgic Confession 26). But Christ is sufficient to be our all and our everything. And that’s what He must be. He doesn’t need to be supplemented by anything or by anybody else.

Whatever earthly joy or pleasure you think you’re lacking, whatever earthly joy or pleasure you think you need to be fulfilled, Paul says, “You only need Christ. You don’t need to supplement Him or add to Him. You just need Him.”

And to press this home even further, Paul brings us to the cross. And this he does so as to highlight the wonder of all wonders – that the Supreme Lord of the Universe is not only able to give us all good things and spiritual fulfillment, but He is also willing. This is what we discover at the cross – the exceeding willingness of the Son to grant you everything you need. The cross reveals to us the wonder that this Jesus is both king and friend. He is not only great, but He is also good – exceedingly good even to sinners.

Suggestions for prayer

Reflect on Christ’s fullness and seek God’s grace to find your all and your everything in Him. Give thanks to God that in Christ we have both a king as well as a friend.

Rev. Bryce De Zwarte is a native of Pella, Iowa and a graduate of Dordt University and Mid-America Reformed Seminary. Rev. De Zwarte has been serving as the pastor of the Adoration URC in Vineland, Ontario since April of 2020. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.