Colossians 1:24-29

Overview:
Paul tells them of his ministry vision. He calls it a stewardship from God - a job that God has given to him to complete on his boss' behalf (God). His purpose is to "make the word of God fully known" (v. 25) to the Gentiles. He is making known "the mystery which is Christ in you, the hope of glory." (v. 27) Paul is proclaiming, warning and teaching people everywhere so that they will be believe in Christ and become mature believers. "For this I toil, struggling with all His energy that He powerfully works within me." (v. 29) ESV

Application:
This should be true of all believers and particularly me. God has brought to mind and placed on my heart the AWANA program which has been an excellent outreach into our community. I need to continue to push to get this back into our church until such time as He shuts the door. I love verse 29 that is rich with Biblical TRUTH. Paul acknowledges the source of his energy and power - is is totally God working in him. I too often do things on my own strength and then wonder why it fails or is less than what it should be.

"Make me a blessing....out of my life, may Jesus shine. Make me a blessing to someone today."

Colossians 1:15-23

Overview:
Paul begins by making it clear who Jesus is:

1. God (image of the invisible God)
2. He existed before creation (the firstborn of all creation)
3. Creation was created by Him and for Him (v.16)
4. He holds all things together (v.17)
5. He is the head of the church
6. He is first over death (v. 18)
7. He reconciled us from the dead by dying on the cross (v.20)
8. He died for us so that He could present us before the throne of God as holy, blameless and above reproach.

Paul concludes this section by reminding them they needed to do their part by continuing in the faith and not shifting their convictions about the Gospel. Hold steadfast to what Paul, God's minister, has told you, he exhorts.

Application:

I cannot be steadfast in my walk with God unless I really know who God is. Just as the Colossians needed to be reminded of whom they were following after, so I must keep Christ and what He has done and is doing uppermost in my thoughts. There is no service for God, no Christian walk apart from KNOWING GOD. Truly knowing Him is a day-by-day, moment-by-moment thing. It's not just a head knowledge. It involves passion - if I really know Him, then how can I keep from loving Him with my whole heart knowing the depth of His love for me?

"Knowing you, Jesus - knowing you. There is no greater thing. You're my all, You're the best. You're my joy and righteousness. And I love you Lord."

Colossians 1:9-14

Overview:
Paul gives a list of the things he is praying about for the Colossian church. He starts out by saying that his prayers for them are continual (not ceased). He is beseeching God for their:

1. minds to be filled w/ the knowledge of God's will and that knowledge would increase (v.10). That they would have spiritual wisdom and understanding.
2. walk would be pleasing (worthy) to God - walk the talk!
3. lives to bear fruit - evidence they belong to God.
4. strengthening by the Holy Spirit (power of His might) so that they have the power to go through hard times (endure) and exhibit patience and joy in their service.
5. thankfulness - never forgetting the Source of their blessings and power. 
6. future hope - their inheritance as believers
7. remembrance of what Jesus has done for them - delivered them from darkness into His glorious light. It's because of Jesus they've been redeemed (purchased from hell's grasp) and their sins have been forgiven.

Application:

This is such a great list for me today to pray for others. I may not know the specifics of the problems they are facing in their lives, but I do know that if they experienced Paul's prayer in their lives, things would be bearable - even victorious!. I'm reminded that I need to pray more and worry less! Cease the worrying and pray unceasingly.

"God help me to be a true prayer warrior for You. May I not be satisfied w/ giving you grocery lists of requests, but may my prayers be filled with adoration and thanksgiving to You."

Colossians 1:1-8

Overview:
Paul rejoices in their past (salvation), present (love for other believers), and in their future (heaven). He further rejoices that the Gospel is bearing fruit and is growing (vs. 6) Paul also gives a word of praise for Epaphras' service to them.
Application:
I must always be mindful of my past (my salvation), which was bought with the dear price of Jesus' blood on Calvary's cross. I must evaluate my present (what am I doing for Jesus)  - am I doing all I can do to further the spread of the Gospel and mentoring new believers? Am I guarding my heart from all that would take me away from doing God's will? Am I actively pursuing Him? I  must always be mindful that this world is not my home. My future (heaven) is to be with God in my eternal reward.
I also am reminded from this passage to be ready with a word of encouragement - an "atta boy" - for those who labor so faithfully for God's people at WCBF and in the Christian community at large. There is no job too insignificant, nor is there one that is so visible that it/they don't need a word of encouragement as well.
I have been abundantly blessed! I have much to be thankful for.

God, never let me take forgranted what you have done and are doing in my life. May I never cease to rejoice in the God of my salvation. Amen.