Perseverance. Scripture, reflection and prayer.

Colossians 4:2-6 "Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. "

Reflection. Have you ever prayed that you would continue doing something that has got you into difficulties. I know l haven't! Normally, we might ask for help stopping, in a life or faith area, where we have problems; addictions, anger, judgementalism. OK, I know Paul is asking that he keeps on sharing the good news of Jesus. But, good grief. He is in prison for it. Now that is perseverance.

The passage begins with calling us to perseverance. We are called to devote ourselves to prayer. The word used is akin to asking us devote ourselves to prayer in the same way an elite sportwomen devotes herself to training.  

There is so much in this passage. Our speech should be the seasoning that gives flavour to conversations. Paul asks us to speak in ways that makes the Gospel even more attractive than it already is. Be engaging!

Prayer. Lord help me to pray. Help me to pray with courage. Help me to be engaging and not boring. For the glory of Jesus. Amen.
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