Colossians 1:1-14
Be Still: Blessed Lord, who caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning, grant us grace to hear them, read them and inwardly digest them. May your truth take root in us and bear fruit to your glory. Amen
Read: Colossians 1:1-14
Being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience. (v11)
Encounter: Colossians opens with Paul’s warm greeting and deep gratitude for the believers in Colossae. As I read Paul’s words, I’m struck by how much affection and hope he holds for people he has never met. His joy comes from hearing about their faith in Christ and their love for others, qualities rooted in the hope stored up for them in heaven. It reminds me that spiritual growth is not an isolated experience but something that ripples outward, becoming visible to others. Paul’s prayer feels almost like a blessing spoken over my own life: that I would be filled with the knowledge of God’s will, with spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that I might live a life worthy of the Lord.
What stands out most is the progression Paul describes – being filled with God’s knowledge leads to living in a way that pleases him, which leads to bearing fruit, which then leads to growing even more in knowing God. It’s a beautiful cycle of spiritual maturity fuelled by God’s own strength. The powerful imagery of being rescued from the dominion of darkness and brought into the kingdom of Christ brings a deep sense of gratitude. This isn’t a small shift; it’s a total relocation of identity, purpose, and future.
Apply: This passage challenges us to examine what shapes our daily decisions. Are we seeking to be filled with God’s wisdom, or are we relying on our own limited understanding? Paul’s prayer invites us into a more intentional posture of dependence. The call to endurance and patience also feels timely. Instead of viewing endurance as a burden, we’re reminded that it is evidence of God’s strength at work within us. Today, let us practice slowing down, seeking God’s guidance before reacting, and choosing gratitude for the redemption we’ve been given.
Devote: Father, thank you for rescuing me from darkness and bringing me into the kingdom of your beloved Son. Fill me with your wisdom, strengthen me with your power, and help me walk in a way that honours you. Let my life bear fruit, reflect your grace, and overflow with gratitude today.