Colossians 1:24-29 (NIV)
Read by: Melissa Murphy
On this episode of Daily Read, Paul talks about his willingness to suffer on behalf of the body of Christ. He counts this as a joy and as a logical extension of what it means to be a part of Christ’s body in the world.
But this is deeply challenging on several fronts. On one hand, there are those of us who might live in relative comfort and are more inclined towards our society’s promise of it. And so we think of suffering as something to avoid. On the other hand, there are those of us who have and are currently experiencing suffering that is not a choice and is not redemptive. So we think of suffering as something that we should be trying to escape.
This passage challenges us to consider what’s possible when you move towards suffering and discomfort willingly, on behalf of a just cause.
----------REFLECT----------
1. What part of this passage is most challenging to you?
2. Is there something in your life, something that Jesus cares about, for which you are willing to suffer?
3. Paul says that he strenuously contends with all the energy Christ so powerfully works within him. He doesn't choose to do this in his own strength. Bring to mind that for which you are willing to suffer, and ask for Jesus' power to animate you to contend for it today.
-------- PRAY FOR CAMPUSES NEAR YOU -------
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Bible Project Podcast: New Testament Letters >>
Bible Project Video: New Testament Letters: Historical Context >>
Bible Project Video: New Testament Letters: Literary Context >>
Bible Project Video: Colossians >>
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