"How to Walk in a Manner Worthy of the Lord" (Colossians 1:10-11) Part Two

In light of what was shared in part one, many Christ followers are probably not caught by surprise at the responsibility of fruit bearing in every good work or by our need to mature in the knowledge of God! However, the idea of our needing to be empowered in order for steadfastness and patience to be revealed may be surprising! Why is that so? I believe that because the goal of these two graces are different from the normal reasons Christ followers have for requesting the power of God! We request God's power for healing from our sickness and disease. We request God's power for healing of our relationships. We request God's power to free us from the hard, oppressive control of all that would hinder from following God. In reality, we just want God to get rid of all our problems and the pain and discomfort they bring. And, we want God to exercise His power to do it for us RIGHT NOW! We hardly ever request God's power for steadfastness and patience! This is due to the lack of awareness of God's reasons for allowing us to suffer in this life. I'm reminded of the words of the Psalmist who said, "Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep Your word" (Psalm 119:67). Further along, we read, "It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I may learn Your statutes" (Psalm 119:71). The problem is this: We are too dedicated to our own things to be done, that we forget that God has His agenda for our lives. His agenda is that of conforming us to His Son (Romans 8:29), and His discipline of us includes the pain of affliction. We need the power of God to remain steadfast and patient during these times of trials in which the holy and caring Father is making us more productive for His glory and honor! Your move. Be encouraged!