Colossians-4
Finishing Strong: A Devotional Study on Colossians 4
Introduction
The book of Colossians concludes with a series of practical recommendations for how we can live out our faith. Paul's final words to the Colossian believers provide a blueprint for how we can finish strong in our daily spiritual walk. As you delve into Colossians 4, consider how you can incorporate these truths into your daily life.
Section 1: Devotion to Prayer (Colossians 4:2-4)
Devotional Thought: The church is best understood through the lens of prayer. Paul encourages the Colossians to devote themselves to prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, making requests known to God. May we approach our prayers with a spirit of gratitude and persistence, trusting in God's faithfulness to hear and answer our prayers.
Reflection Questions:
- How can you cultivate a greater devotion to prayer in your daily life?
- Are there any prayers you need to revisit with a renewed spirit of gratitude and persistence?
Section 2: Wisdom in Words (Colossians 4:5-6)
Devotional Thought: Paul's advice to the Colossians to be wise in our words is not simply an exhortation to avoid gossip or harsh speech. It's a challenge to speak words that are seasoned with salt and grace. May we be people who use our words to build others up, encourage them, and point them to Christ.
Reflection Questions:
- How can you cultivate the habit of speaking words that are seasoned with salt and grace?
- Are there any individuals in your life that you can intentionally encourage and build up through your words?
Section 3: Rejecting Worldly Wisdom (Colossians 4:7-14)
Devotional Thought: Paul charges the Colossians to reject worldly wisdom and instead, put on Christ. This includes putting on love, which is the bond of perfection. May we focus on cultivating our relationship with Christ, rooted in His love, and seek to discard any worldly wisdom in our lives.
Reflection Questions:
- How can you determine if certain beliefs, practices, or relationships are rooted in worldly wisdom rather than Christ's teachings?
- Are there any beliefs, practices, or relationships that you need to reconsider in light of Christ's teachings?
Section 4: Making Christ Known (Colossians 4:15-18)
Devotional Thought: Paul concludes his letter with a bold command. We are called to make Christ known, both through our words and our actions. This requires both courage and obedience. May we be people who are willing to humbly and boldly share the Good News with those around us.
Reflection Questions:
- How can you prioritize sharing Christ with those around you, both through your words and your actions?
- Are there any relationships or opportunities that you need to intentionally pursue in order to make Christ known?
Conclusion:
The final words of Paul's letter provide us with a framework for how we can finish strong in our daily spiritual walk. Let's recommit ourselves to prayer, wisdom in our words, rejecting worldly wisdom, and making Christ known. May we allow these truths to mold our character and shape our daily lives, finishing strong for Christ.