40 Day Devotionals 2014 Day 38

Some of you are probably thinking that Easter is a bit over a week away and we are almost out of 40 days. The reality is that the 40 days of Lent don't include Sundays. I actually post a devotional for every day between Ash Wednesday and Easter. Which is more than 40 days. This is way for those of you, like myself, who try to focus on the whole time as reflection on your faith, you can do so.
I would like for anyone who reads this blog entry to be praying for my wife and I. The whole baby perpetration is starting to become a little over whelming. I'm not sure which emotions my wife is feeling or how she is dealing completely. There is so much to do. Between youth preparation, home preparation, budgeting, and mental toughening, we are a bit stressed. It is a lot more than we would thought it would be. I'm sure many of you who are parents already know all of these feelings.
Welcome to the hood, parenthood.

Day 38

Scripture

Colossians 4:2-6

-    Before Reading the scripture today; Pray and ask the spirit to guide you in the reading:
-    2 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. 3 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. 4 Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. 5 Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. 6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

Wisdom

-    In this passage by Paul we read of 4 distinct values that he puts upon the church and its people. 1. He is asking us to devote our time in prayer and communication with God. 2. He asks us to pray for others to be able to stay strong disciples and spread the word of Christ. 3. Watch yourself as you act with folks who aren’t church-goers. Take advantage of meeting people who aren’t Christians as ways to spread the words of Christ through your actions and words. 4. Watch what you say, being mindful of what is coming out of your mouth and who is listening. This way no one can question you.
-    Take some time and read through this passage a few times. Think about what you do well out of these 4 values and where you need work. Pray about that.


Apply

-    Has this season of Lent helped you become stronger in prayer and commitment?
-    Do you see yourself continuing devoting time to the Lord daily even after Lent is over?

Prayer

-    Pray that the Lord helps you grow in your faith. Ask the Lord to give you the strength of the Spirit to watch your words, actions, and overall witness to others. Now stop and pray for other Christian friends. Ask that the Lord give them the strength and courage to spread the words of Christ and stay devoted to Him.