Do you have an unwavering commitment to prayer and the purposes of God? I know many people pray at times, but making a commitment to prayer and the purposes of God is all about voluntarily pursuing and honoring our covenant-keeping God and His Word. I am convinced that if we bring this kind of devotion and spend time lifting all things to God in order to gain His Wisdom and live out the teachings of Christ, we are honoring the servant-life God created for us.
We are to offer our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1a). In fact, this is our spiritual act of obedience and worship (Romans 12:b). God knows this kind of devotion [being set-apart for service] will lead to sharing His love with others—fulfilling His missional purpose.
In our passage today, the Apostle Paul encourages the believers in Colossae to devote themselves to living wisely. This exhortation points to the power of prayer, an alert mindset, and, of course, gratitude for the salvation God has provided. When our words are seasoned with salt [Truth/Love], we gain favor for a righteous response with every individual we encounter—opportunities to share the love of Christ. Remember, people are important to God and they must be to us, as well. Let’s devote ourselves…
Colossians 4:2-6 NLT An Encouragement for Prayer
2 Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. 3 Pray for us, too, that God will give us many opportunities to speak about his mysterious plan concerning Christ. That is why I am here in chains. 4 Pray that I will proclaim this message as clearly as I should.
5 Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. 6 Let your conversation be gracious and attractive [seasoned w/salt] so that you will have the right response for everyone.
Prayer: Lord, help us to make a steadfast commitment to prayer and Your missional purpose for the world. Guide us as we seek You daily in faith and gratitude. Provide us with the grace and wisdom we need in Christ. Help us to live in a way that reveals Your presence; we offer our lives to You. Help us tame our words and actions to reflect Your heart and open doors for us to share Your love with others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.