◄ What Does Colossians 1:4 Mean? ►

Having heard of their fervent trust in the Lord Jesus Christ and their love for one another, we read that Paul prayed often for the Colossians Christians. What a wonderful testimony to these saints, and what a challenge to all who are saved by the blood of the Lamb.

It was not their mighty works for which this little group of Christians were commended in these opening verses of his letter, nor was it their great preaching or generosity that prompted Paul to pray on their behalf. It was their faith in Christ and their love for each other that motivated Paul to write to these faithful brothers and sisters in Christ, and caused him to pray continuously for them, giving thanks to God for them all.

Faith and love are two of the principle graces that are the hallmark of the saint, and along with hope they combine into a trio of Christian attributes that are so beloved of the Father. Faith and love are two 'fruits of the Spirit' that blossom and bloom in the lives of all believers that are walking in spirit and truth.

Paul goes on to say: "Faith and love that spring from the hope stored up for you in heaven," the fruit of which is the gospel growing throughout the whole world. Indeed, since these dear believers heard the gospel and truly understood the grace of God, the natural result was that they were bearing fruit and shedding the gospel abroad.

Let us take heart from this passage of Scripture. Let us be known for our faith in Christ and our love for all God's people. And in these last days, may the blessed hope that is stored up for us in heaven overflow in our loves so that we will tell all we meet the glorious gospel of grace.

May we be those who sit at the feet of Jesus getting to know Him more intimately, day by day. The more we know Him the more we trust Him; and the more we trust Him, the more His love flows into our heart so that we become a channel of Christ's love and grace, flowing out to all the saints of God.

Dear Lord, I love You, but I long to love You more. I trust You, but I want to trust You me. Help me to rest so securely in You that Your love flows freely through me to others, bringing praise and honour to Your holy name. In Jesus' name, AMEN.