Lord Over All Things

Scripture Focus: Colossians 1:17–18

“He is before all things, and in him all things hold together… so that in everything he might have the supremacy.” (NIV)

Devotional Thought

Everyone gives authority to something — ambition, success, fear, relationships, or self. Scripture announces that Jesus alone holds rightful authority over everything.

Interpretation

Paul describes Jesus with cosmic language. Colossians 1:17-18 proclaims Jesus as eternally preexistent, existing before all creation and actively sustaining every part of it by his divine power, ensuring that nothing falls into chaos apart from his lordship. As head of the church — his body — and the firstborn from the dead, he inaugurates a new creation through resurrection, holding supreme authority over death itself, an open invitation to all who respond in faith. Supremacy speaks of Jesus as first in priority and position. This passage emphasizes Jesus' comprehensive lordship over visible and invisible realms, thrones, powers, and the entire cosmos, so that in everything — redemption included — he rightfully holds preeminence as the reconciling source of life for humanity.

Contemporary Relevance

Calling Jesus “Lord” is not religious jargon — it is a declaration of His unrivaled authority. His Lordship is good news: the One who created the universe rules with wisdom, justice, and love. He is first; not our own pursuits, passions and desires. Submitting to Him is not losing control but finding life, having everything fall into place behind him.

Quote of the Day

“Jesus is Lord of all—not by force, but by the power of love and resurrection.” — Lesslie Newbigin

Reflection Question

What area of your life needs to be more fully aligned under the Lordship of Jesus today?

Prayer Prompt

Ask Jesus to rule your heart, decisions, relationships, and priorities.

• Copyright 2026 by Steven Chapman. Used by permission.