Pray that God may Open a Door – Colossians 4:2-6
We are where we are. Each of us has a place—work, home, school, neighbors, associates—and in that place are people. When is the right time to introduce Jesus, and what opportunities are there for the gospel?
Paul was asking for more of these, even in prison, requesting prayer for open doors to share the gospel:
Colossians 4:3-4 (CSB)
“At the same time, pray also for us that God may open a door to us for the message, to speak the mystery of the Messiah, for which I am in prison, so that I may reveal it as I am required to speak.”
Isn’t that what we seek? The opportunity to bring Christ into our conversations and unveil the mystery of the gospel to those in darkness. When people ask to pray for you, this is a great request: God, please open a door in the hearts of those I’m with, that they may be open to Jesus.
Paul offers wise advice on sharing Christ with those in our lives:
Colossians 4:5-6 (CSB)
“Act wisely toward outsiders, making the most of the time. Your speech should always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you should answer each person.”
We should always be conscious of those who don’t know Christ. We should “act wisely.” I love that song, “You’re the only Jesus some will ever see…” Our friends, coworkers, and neighbors may never enter a church or open a Bible, but they know us. Are we making the most of every opportunity? Or are they an inconvenience, clashing with our schedules? When chances to serve arise—babysitting their kids, mowing their lawn, helping with a project—do we jump in? Paul advises our speech be “always gracious, seasoned with salt,” more likely when we act wisely, mindful of our witness.
It’s amazing that even Paul sought prayer for open doors and wisdom. We too can pray for each other this way, knowing time is short. Where will those we know spend eternity?
Father, give us open doors and awareness. Help us act wisely and speak graciously, seasoned with salt. May we seize opportunities to bring the gospel’s light to those You’ve placed in our lives, opening their hearts to Your Son’s gift.
