Previously in his letter to the believers in Colosse and Laodicea the apostle Paul addressed both Christian character and their home. Now he focuses on employment, more specifically employers or “masters.”
Often believers are referred to servants more so than masters, in spite of the fact some among us are indeed masters of servants, or employees ourselves. This section of Paul’s letter is meant for those blessed with the responsibility to manage workers in ways glorifying to God almighty.
“1 Masters, give your bondservants what is just and fair, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven.” (Colossians 4:1)
Christian employers are expected to compensate workers fairly as well as, in the days of the apostle, provide clothing, shelter and rest. Doing so in ways that glorify our heavenly Father promises a harvest beyond measure upon those who respect employees and servants, just as God respects employers by providing them with an eternal reward in heaven.
At the time when Paul wrote this letter, it was common for masters to do as they pleased with their servants. Through the gospel and revival in Christ, earthly masters or employers treated their servants in ways they expected to be blessed themselves by God, the divine Master and Lord of all.
“2 Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving;” (Colossians 4:2)
Paul calls on believers in Colosse and beyond to consistently and constantly surrender ourselves to God through prayer. We should also be fully aware of the fulfillment of prophecy that surrounds us, just as it did for the new Christians in the region and throughout the Roman empire.
Through prayer believers communicate both desire and gratitude to God which are both vessels by which those in Christ are blessed, both on earth in this life or in the next where all Christians rejoice for all eternity.
“3 Meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains, 4 that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.” (Colossians 4:3-4)
Even the apostle Paul and his fellow laborers needed help, this time assistance would come through the power of prayer. By lifting up each worker, God is magnified and inspired to pour out His divine blessings upon His children.
“5 Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time.” (Colossians 4:5)
Paul reminds believers of the world they are inevitably exposed to, for many doubling as mission field. This time should be invested in God rather than men. As such Christ like character should be displayed to in itself act as a testimony about salvation through faith.
“6 Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.” (Colossians 4:6)
The apostle calls on believers to speak words from the likeness of Christ rather than man’s as Christians are called to witness and share the gospel of Jesus christ to the four corners of the earth, as fulfillment of our mission which precedes the return of the savior.
Through study of His word, believers become anointed servants to be blessed upon the day of harvest where all those in Christ receive the wage for their toil. Let us pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Paul,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
