INSTRUCTION TO PRAY AND WALK GODLY (COL 4: 2-6)

INSTRUCTION TO PRAY AND WALK GODLY (COL 4: 2-6):

After writing the general instructions and specific instructions to the Colossians believers, Paul writes his final instructions to them. Paul writes to continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, they shall pray also for them, that God may open to them a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which he is in prison that he may make it clear, which is how he ought to speak. Though we know all the principles and commandments of God, and thereby what is good and what is bad, there are always chances that we just keep pursuing our selfish desires and pleasing others in our immediate surroundings without really practicing what is right and pleasing God. The constant communication with God by reminding ourselves of the will of God for our lives and being grateful for what He had given and what He had not given helps us to pursue and come back to what is perfect. Also, it is essential to pray for one another, preferably for their spiritual needs, as God alone can intervene to open the heart of a person for receiving the Word of God when the Gospel of Christ which comprises His eternity, His purpose, His birth, His life, His salvation, His death, His resurrection, and His Judgment is declared. Paul had suffered so much for the sake of the Gospel and even got imprisoned so many times for proclaiming it with determination, perseverance, and much clarity.

Paul then instructed the Colossians to walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. As followers of Christ, we ought to show love and kindness to strangers and those who are in need. At the same time, it is important to be polite and wise as well, in dealing with someone who is unknown, as their intentions may be crooked and deceiving for selfish gain, jealousy, or irrational thoughts. Even spending time with them without any good purpose, could be destructive or unproductive. We are stewards of our time and need to use it in an efficient and meaningful manner.

Finally, Paul instructs that their speech shall be always gracious, seasoned with salt, so that they may know how they ought to answer each person. Only when our way of speaking is with a genuine concern and approachable way, the recipient will show interest in receiving and communicating back. As salt adds taste to our food, the good words that we speak to other people could add value to their life and even helps them in a positive change. When we tune our speech with the right words, we will be able to converse with anyone confidently without any hesitation or fear. It also helps us give the appropriate replies to anyone who questions us. 

Stimulations for Self-Reflection:

1.      How should the prayer be?

2.      Why it is important to continue prayer and thanksgiving?

3.      For what, Paul asks the Corinthians to pray? Why?

4.      What is the mystery of Christ?

5.      How do prayer and declaring Christ go in hand with one another?

6.      How outsiders should be dealt with? Why?

7.      How the speech should be? Why?

8.      What is meant by seasoned with salt?

9.      How we can deal with the people who are unknown?

How we can make our speech gracious and seasoned with salt?