DEC 16

Colossians 4:4
Memorise Matthew 9:37-38
“…as I ought to speak…”

Colossians 4:4 is a short verse, but full of spiritual importance: “That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.” The word manifest means to make appear, which is in contrast to the word mystery in the previous verse. In the past, the full extent of the gospel was not fully revealed, but now through Christ all is revealed. However, it requires us to speak this truth unto others who did not see before. If the person preached to be God’s elect, then the Holy Spirit will reveal this truth to him. If the person preached to be not, then no revelation takes place, but the preacher has done his duty in making the gospel truth plain to him. Paul knew that his duty was simply to preach the truth of the gospel, to make it plain and clear to all. From his salvation, his simple but earnest desire was that he may be able to preach Christ and Him crucified (1 Corinthians 2:2). He saw the plenteous harvest, and prayed that God may send him to reap this harvest.

This short verse has shamed me. For unlike Paul, I am often reluctant to speak about Christ to unbelievers, giving all sorts of excuses. I know I should have Paul’s single-minded desire to preach the gospel no matter how difficult it is. However, often times I think of the difficulties, and thus hold back from doing so. I am not in bonds like Paul and am free to go where I wish, yet I do not use this freedom to preach. Paul saw the plenteous harvest, but I of little faith can only see a few stubborn stalks around. Unlike Paul, I do not pray as much as I should for more opportunities to preach the gospel to those who are perishing, but I selfishly pray more for my own needs instead. I ought to speak; and now, I sincerely pray that I will. How about you, dear teen?

Thought: What other excuses do I give for not preaching the gospel?
Prayer: O God, give me more opportunities to speak for Thee.