“Do not handle [this], Do not taste [that], Do not even touch [them], referring to things all of which perish with being used. To do this is to follow human precepts and doctrines. Such [practices] have indeed the outward appearance [that popularly passes] for wisdom, in promoting self-imposed rigor of devotion and delight in self-humiliation and severity of discipline of the body, but they are of no value in checking the indulgence of the flesh (the lower nature). [Instead, they do not honor God but serve only to indulge the flesh.]” Colossians 2:21-23 ->me: The regulations mentioned in verse 21 (don’t do this, don’t do that, don’t touch them) are suggestions of the rules of Judaism. Paul is telling the Colossians they no longer need to practice the avoidance of certain things in order to stay ceremonial clean for the Lord to dwell with them. Jesus came and made us pure so that through Him we have audience with the Father (the veil was rent from the top to the bottom). Following these rules might be impressive and communicate commitment or devotion, but because of the heart the focus is on 1) drawing attention to one’s self 2) to feel good about one’s self 3) to gain notoriety through intense acts…God sees no value in them. They are worthless because the effort is focused on the person’s pride or emotional needs rather than to glorify God. Holy Spirit, help me to see things that I do to APPEAR righteous, of FEEL better about myself that I SAY I do for you but in actuality I do them for my own fleshly indulgence; help me to stop and turn the focus on obeying and worshipping my Father in heaven.
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