Colossians 1:13-14 Out of the pit

We were (still are) wallowing in the pit–repeatedly sinning with no possibility of perfection or purpose. But the beauty of it is, our God loved us enough to bring about the most glorious and important intervention. God himself (through the person of his Son) paid the penalty for the sins of any and all who… Read More

Colossians 1:11-12 God’s strength for the long haul

Agony. Death. Pain. Fear. Sorrow. We will experience these things and more as we go through life. Do I have to just grit my teeth and endure? In the middle of the deepest and darkest valleys, God will help me to move beyond my wailing question, “Why me?” I look to see God in the… Read More

Colossians 1:10 1 + 2 = 3

I’m not an equation kind of person–I learn by stories and visuals–but this verse is an equation for life, and God gave it to us. We pray (for ourselves and others) asking for wise minds, attuned spirits, and understanding. Why? So that we can life a life worthy of the Lord (with His help) with… Read More

Colossians 1:9 We haven’t stopped praying for you

There’s no such thing as too much prayer. And what am I praying for–a grocery list of my desires or a growing relationship with the Lord for myself and others?       Colossians 1:9 (The Message) Be assured that from the first day we heard of you, we haven’t stopped praying for you, asking… Read More

Colossians 1:7-8 Splashes of His love

Whatever I fill my mind, heart, and soul with, it splashes on everyone around me. Lord, fill me with your love and let it overflow!     Colossians 1:7-8 (The Message) The Message bears fruit and gets larger and stronger, just as it has in you. From the very first day you heard and recognized… Read More

Colossians 1:6 The whole world will hear the good news

The gospel–God’s grace in all its truth–is spreading throughout the whole world. How about in your neighborhood?      Colossians 1:6 (The Message) This same Good News that came to you is going out all over the world. It is bearing fruit everywhere by changing lives, just as it changed your lives from the day… Read More