GOD ENERGIZES OUR EFFORT

We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me.

Colossians 1:28–29 niv

Look at Paul’s aim, to present everyone perfect in Christ. Paul dreamed of the day each person would be safe in Christ. What was his method? Counseling and teaching. Paul’s tools? Verbs. Nouns. Sentences. Lessons. The same equipment you and I have.…

Was it easier then than now? Don’t think so. Paul called it work. To this end I labor, he wrote. Labor means work. Work means homes visited, people taught, classes prepared.

How did he do it? What was his source of strength? He worked with all the energy he so powerfully works in me.

As Paul worked, so did God.… And as you work, so does the Father.

When God Whispers Your Name
[1]

Today's Scripture in Context

QUESTION: Where is the vineyard where you labor for the Kingdom? As you labor there, are you energized by Christ or are you depending on your own strength? Unlike the Energizer bunny, your battery and mine will eventually run down. That is why we must put our faith in the omnipotent One … the all powerful source. Only what you do for Christ and in Christ will last.

[1]Lucado, Max; Gibbs, Terri A.: Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year. Nashville, Tenn.: J. Countryman, 2000, S. 264