Praying! (part 6 of 7)

Yesterday we noted the focus of prayer regarding open doors and for eyes to recognize them. Again reading the text, Paul urged. . .

"(2) Continue steadfastly in PRAYER, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. (3) At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, ON ACCOUNT OF WHICH I AM IN PRISON -- (4) that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak." ( Colossians 4:2-4 ESV)

Praying IN SPITE OF RESTRICTIONS OR LIMITATIONS. What a remarkable focus Paul was able to maintain! Unlike so many, he was not one to throw himself a pity party when things were not going as well as he might have liked. IN SPITE OF Paul's imprisonment, he kept his eyes opened to the good God would bring and the opportunities He would provide. In fact, due to Paul's imprisonment he rejoiced that others were encouraged to speak the word more boldly. ( Philippians 1:14) Imprisonment also had provided Paul with the door of opportunity to reach others he might not have otherwise; even some within Caesar's household. ( Philippians 4:22) The CHAINS Paul bore had NO POWER TO STOP THE WORD from being spread. ( 2 Timothy 2:9) The man could be chained, but not the message! Wherever Paul was -- regardless of situation -- his view remained fixed on the work God had called him to do.

Perhaps we have experienced situations where we felt there was nothing we could do. To us it appeared all doors were closed and we were tempted to quit. What we need to guard against is allowing our OWN LIMITATIONS (whether real or imagined) from limiting what God is still able to do through us or with the situation.

When we begin to wonder about SEEMING LIMITATIONS, let us lift our focus in prayer to God, praying for eyes to recognize the good He can do even when and where we might least expect it. Our God is the One Who has the power to work all things out for good. ( Romans 8:28) Let us therefore continue to surrender to Him, being prepared to be used for His purposes IN SPITE OF the seeming limitations experienced in this world as we remember "with God all things are possible." ( Matthew 19:26)

Have a great day TRUSTING THE ONE WHOSE WORK CANNOT BE STOPPED!
Carl

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