In Colossians 2, Paul urges Christ followers to find all we need in Christ. At the time of the writing of Colossians 2, some Christians were attempting to follow a strict asceticism, denying themselves food, drink or earthly comforts in an effort to increase their ability to experience unity with God. While Jesus did refer to periodic fasting as a means to effective prayer (see Mark 9:29), he did not teach His followers to exalt fasting as a means to increase their ability to experience unity with Himself. Instead, it’s our daily walk with Christ, the daily surrender of our will for His will that results in continual fellowship with Him. To exalt anything other than Christ Himself as a means to unity with Christ is what Paul was warning believers against.

I am reminded of John 15:5 where Jesus states, “I am the Vine, you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

One of my favorite ways to remain in Christ is through thankfulness. When things are humming along, when home, health and family are all good, it’s easy to be thankful. When things are tough, or uncertainty looms, I can give thanks that I serve the One who knows the answer, even when I don’t. When I feel like I don’t have the time, money or resources to do what I think I need to do, I can be thankful that my heavenly Father owns all things, including time and all treasure. I remember that He finds many ways to take care of us. What I know for sure is “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28).

There is nothing we need to add to Christ to experience unity with Christ. He is completely and utterly sufficient for all of our needs, now and forever.