Four-Calendar Café

Paul’s letter to the Colossians gives us great insight into how we should pray for Christians. While I was reading Colossians today, some verses stood out to me about how to pray for other Christians and how to pray for those who are not Christian. 

We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you.

Colossians 1:3 (NIV)

When we pray for others, we should thank God for them. Not just those in the family of Believers but everyone. Even if they’ve hurt you or otherwise caused you pain. God created them, just as he did you. Think about it, if you can’t thank God for your enemies, are you sincere in your prayers for them? 

I have notes on Philippians that I’d like to share today.

And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.

Philippians 1:14 (NIV)

It’s incredible that, as a prisoner, Paul was an encouragement to other Christians, who boldly preached the Gospel message instead of being afraid that they might end up in prison. This behavior is contrary to what one might expect since we rarely see someone’s distressing situation and do the same things that got them into it. Instead, most people will do whatever they can to avoid the same predicament.

And find out what pleases the Lord.

Ephesians 5:10 (NIV)

What pleases God? I don’t think what pleases God is a mystery. What does Hebrews 11:6 tell us?

And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

Hebrews 11:6 (NIV)

What is faith?

Very rarely, when I read the Bible, do I read something that makes my “hackles” rise. When I read something and say, “That can’t be. It doesn’t seem right.” I know that any error in understanding Scripture is found in me, so when I encounter something that gives me pause. I dive into it. This is what happened today with these verses from Romans.

Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended (emphasis added).

Romans 13:1-3 (NIV)

If anyone knew about persecution, it was Paul. Paul was constantly persecuted by those in authority. It wasn’t uncommon for Paul to have done something good and then be punished by the governing authorities.