Session 28

If God did it for them, He can do it for you

From Colossians: A 28-Day Devotional

The closing lines of a letter are often the most important. The end is what the receiver will remember, what they will take away from all the stories, instructions, and ideas. 

Most writers leave the reader with something to encourage, motivate, and compel them. The idea is to give the recipient something to hold onto, something to remember, and something to look forward to.

Paul’s letter to the church in Colossae ends with a charge. Paul writes, “See to it that you complete the work you have received in the Lord” and “Remember my chains. Grace be with you” (Colossians 4:17-18). In other words, Paul was telling the church: Don’t give up no matter what your current circumstances look like.

Paul wanted the church to remember his chains and how God delivered him. He wanted them to be encouraged that whatever prison they find themselves in, God’s promise would set them free. He wanted them to know that if God was faithful to him, God would be faithful to them.

The same grace that delivered Paul from his chains is available to each of us today. Jesus’ salvation is greater than your current situation. The same God who delivered Paul from his prison can deliver you, too.

Reflect:

• Is there any situation where you’re ready to give up? Based on everything you’ve read in Colossians, what do you think Paul would say to you?
• If you were writing a letter to your future self, what’s one truth from this season you’d want to remember?