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 1:3-5 Our future is heaven

When I read these verses, I drew a straight line to represent our ascent and growth in faith and hope when we join in God’s purpose and are filled with his love. But circumstances, sins, doubts, pain–the reality of life–make the line full of hills we struggle up and valleys we careen down into despite… Read More

Psalm 1:4-5 Purposeful life

I have a purpose, a direction, a raison d’etre. I need to listen to God daily, continue in strong relationship with him, and choose to follow where he leads.          Psalm 1:4-5 (The Message) You’re not at all like the wicked, who are mere windblown dust— Without defense in court, unfit company for… Read More

Passing through the fire

I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Philippians… Read More