Colossians 4:2-4
“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.”
“Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. 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. Pray that I will proclaim the message as clearly as I should.”
Thanksgiving in tough times is hard but is the beginning of God’s work in that moment. Regardless the misery, look for even the smallest thing to thank God for. It turns our eyes from the problem to the solution.
The spread of the gospel is mysterious. The Spirit of God weaves himself throughout the world in wonderous ways. It is his work, and I am only an assistant. All I need do is follow instructions. That means staying close enough to hear them.
Paul believed God could make all his words witness to Christ, even words related to everyday living. We are called to be so saturated with the Spirit that even speech about daily life points to Jesus.
Lord give us a thankful spirit right now. We need your help. Fill me so all my words point to you even when in the pit of despair. Choke off the enemy’s effort to destroy us. Keep us safe in the shadow of your wings, especially while we are so vulnerable. Show us the path up out of the mire.