Colossians 1 - Steve Wiggins Daily Devotional

“G_d wanted to make known to those among the Gentiles the glorious wealth of His mystery, which is Messiah in you, the hope of glory. We proclaim Him, warning and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone mature in Messiah. I labor for this, striving with His strength that works powerfully in me.” Colossians 1:27-29

I really urge you to read this chapter. If for no other reason, it lays out the deity of Yeshua.

Every believer, at the moment they become a follower of Yeshua, receives the gift of the Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit). It is G_d’s Ruach that teaches us, and even intercedes to G_d on our behalf.

The Bible says there are times when the Ruach will express itself in great power. These would be times when a work is accomplished and there is no doubt that only G_d’s Ruach has accomplished it.

Paul is speaking of such a time in today’s passage. Paul notes that G_d is accomplishing His will through Paul, as he is strengthened and empowered by the Ruach HaKodesh. Wouldn’t you like the Ruach to work through you, as it did for Paul? Here are some things we can learn from Paul’s testimony:

First, G_d is looking for FAITHFUL believers to labor at His mission. Are you willing to step out in faith? Does your fear of the World keep you from possessing what is only offered to G_d’s faithful servants?

Second, Paul proclaimed the WHOLE gospel. When you share your faith, do you withhold the elements that are essential to true conversion, yet make people feel uncomfortable? It is unhealthy when a person values a RELATIONSHIP more than they value the other PERSON in the relationship. Often, people withhold sharing the truth of G_d’s standard, mankind’s sin and the consequence of Hell for all who refuse Yeshua’s atonement. They do this, simply because they value the personal relationship with the non-believer more than they care about the non-believer’s salvation. Such a relationship is selfish, because it puts the believer’s personal social comfort ahead of the spiritual necessities of the non-believing friend.

Paul presented the Gospel, as it is. The whole Gospel. He told of the great love of Messiah, and he warned of the reality of Hell. He knew very well that the message of Yeshua was the cornerstone of salvation to some, and a “rock of offense” to others. Paul didn't “market” Yeshua, he “preached” Him.

Lastly, after faithfully heeding G_d's call and proclaiming the complete gospel, the Ruach worked in power & strength. Thus, Paul saw his efforts bear fruit worthy of his suffering, because he was confident G_d’s Ruach would bring success, according to His perfect wisdom, purpose, and plan and promise.

Blessings,
~Steve Wiggins, Associate Leader, Worship Leader
Shuvah Yisrael
Daily Devotional, Tuesday, October 15, 2013