Praying at the same time for us as well, that God will open up to us a door for the word, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I have also been imprisoned.

When we get together as a church family in small group, Sunday school, or even over coffee to catch up, a common practice is sharing prayer requests. We share about the people we love who are struggling or personal matters that are afflicting us. Paul’s request to the church in Colossae is a reminder of other ways we can pray for one another. His request was not only related to getting through his present circumstances in prison but also a longing to be faithful and share the gospel even through the roadblocks and difficulties he faced.

When we face hardship, we often look inward. We wait for the personal resolve to look for opportunities to share our faith with others. The truth is, regardless of your circumstances, there are many people in your life who do not know Christ or need to know Him more. You are called to be a witness in all seasons, good and bad. May we take up this call as Paul did, longing to be faithful to the gospel and proclaiming the hope of Christ in every season. May we pray for more than a quick resolve but also that God would open doors for us to share His hope wherever we go. Second Corinthians 5:20 says, “Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.” Because we follow Christ, we are called to be His ambassadors and share His hope with others, while also praying for one another for similar opportunities to share.

• What are some reasons it is difficult for you to share your faith in this season?
• Do you pray for your brothers and sisters in Christ to share their faith? Why or why not? How can you begin this?
• Pray and ask God to open the doors for you and others at our church to share your faith.