Scripture to Read: Colossians 4:14–18
God had Paul close out the letter to the Christians in Colossae with this in Colossians 4:14–18, “Luke, the beloved physician, sends you his greetings, and also Demas. 15 Greet the brethren who are in Laodicea and also Nympha and the church that is in her house. 16 When this letter is read among you, have it also read in the church of the Laodiceans; and you, for your part read my letter that is coming from Laodicea. 17 Say to Archippus, “Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it.” 18 I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. Remember my imprisonment. Grace be with you.” God allowed Paul to mention other believers who wanted to send their greetings to the believers in Colossae. God also had Paul tell the Christians in Colossae to be sure and read this letter to the believers in Laodicea and for them to read the letter coming from Laodicea. God had Paul give a word of encouragement to Archippus to make sure he fulfilled the ministry God had called him to fulfill. Archippus is only mentioned one other time in Scripture in Philemon 1:2, where God had Paul refer to him as a “fellow soldier.” Sometimes we all need a word of encouragement to stay focused on the work God has called us to fulfill for His glory, honor, and praise. God reminds us in Philippians 2:12 that He is at work in us “both to will and to work for His good pleasure.” What a privilege to serve Him.
Challenge & Application
How has God used you in other Christians’ lives to be an encouragement to them?
How has God used other Christians to be an encouragement to you?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!