The book of Colossians is just rich with truth. I've spent some time dissecting each chapter and a few verses in the final chapter (4) caught my eye. To set the stage a bit there was a lot of false teaching going around so Paul writes a letter to the church of Colosse to encourage believers to march forward in spreading the gospel. Here are a few things he writes in his instructions:
1. Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful (vs. 2)
2. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. (vs.3-4)
3. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. (vs. 5)
Let me take a moment to confess something I'm not proud of. The last time I shared the gospel with someone was about 11 years ago. I've been a Christian for about 16 years. Now, in the last 11 years I've been a part of ministry opportunities where I've traveled to different parts of the world to share the gospel: Mexico, Thailand, and Europe so I've been able to share my story and tell others about what God has done in me but, the last time I was able to share Christ and see someone's life turn around and their eyes be open to God's truth was 11 years ago. Wish I had the time to share the story about this young girl's conversion and our friendship but that may need to be another blog post for another day. God's word brought a healthy conviction to my soul as I broke down these verses for myself.
Verse 2, Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. It's a good reminder. Not only should I pray but I have to be aware. Daily, God is creating moments where I can teach or demonstrate my love for Him by my words and actions to those around me. Be watchful of who may be listening or looking.This could be your spouse, your kids, unsaved family members, the lonely mom at the park. And who knows how this could translate into action???
Verses 3-4, And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Pray for other believers too. Challenge each other in a healthy way about spreading the Good News. Do you know any missionaries? We have brothers and sisters in Christ who are spreading the gospel and need our help in prayer!
Verse 5, Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. You've heard it before, actions speak louder than words. So be wise in your actions and make the most of every opportunity! Are we too busy to extend a hand to those in need? The other day my mom shared a heartbreaking story about a homeless man sitting in a restaurant and was told to leave so he could be served outside. My heart broke. Thankfully my parents made the most of the opportunity and bought the man breakfast. I can't get those 6 words out of my head, make the most of every opportunity! Walk with your head up and eyes open.
I have failed to do this. I've been comfortable and content in my little bubble of happiness that I haven't sought out opportunities to share the Good News. I've been selfish. The goal is not to beat you up or for me to sulk in my sorrows but Paul makes a good final closing point. Not sure how this looks for you and your daily routine of life, but ponder on Paul's words and then move it into action.
Additional Resources:
The Power of a Whisper by Bill Hybels
Love is the Killer App by Tim Sanders
The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren
Power Verses:
Romans 1:16
I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes (NIV)
Mark 16:15
Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation
Ephesians 5:15-16
Be very careful, then, how you live - not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.
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