Daily Reading: 8-2-16
Colossians 4:2-6 The Message (MSG)
Let’s spiritually examine our thoughts and attitudes for a minute; it’s how we listen for truth and grow in all relationships. When you are talking to others, is it your goal to bring out the best in others during those conversations? To set a platform for ongoing dialogue, rather than stopping at a stiff exchange of information?
When it comes to sharing the gospel, we are to pray for God to open doors of opportunity and communication in our every day lives. We are to step into those times filled with Grace, because we are to follow our leader, Jesus. Scripture teaches Jesus always stepped into gospel-sharing moments in humility, gentleness, meekness, and lowliness in order to be welcomed into ongoing dialogue. The only time we see something different in Jesus’ character is when he is communicating with the Pharisees who are simply trying to further their religious agenda by controlling others.
In our passage, today, the Apostle Paul is in jail for speaking about Jesus, but he is still praying for the Lord to open doors of communication so he can share the abundant gospel of salvation. No matter where Paul finds himself, it is a place that needs a Word from the Lord.
Colossians 4:2-6 Pray for Open Doors
2-4 Pray diligently. Stay alert, with your eyes wide open in gratitude. Don’t forget to pray for us, that God will open doors for telling the mystery of Christ, even while I’m locked up in this jail. Pray that every time I open my mouth I’ll be able to make Christ plain as day to them.
5-6 Use your heads as you live and work among outsiders. Don’t miss a trick. Make the most of every opportunity. Be gracious in your speech. The goal is to bring out the best in others in a conversation, not put them down, not cut them out.
Prayer: Lord, please make me an instrument of your peace wherever I go, today. Open doors of opportunity to share your love by being a gracious example. Holy Spirit, put a watch over my thoughts and attitudes and nudge me if I am not bringing out the best in others with my words. In Jesus’ name. Amen.