Opportunity

If you are looking for the posts about

God's Amazing Blessing

Announcement—I'm moving!

here's the link to the first Part: 

http://createapositiveday.blogspot.com/2015/05/announcement-part-1-im-moving.html

Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.

There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—

and God took care of each and every one! 

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This post is the continuation of my Study of Colossians.    

And at the same time pray for us also, that God may open a door to us for the Word (the Gospel), to proclaim the mystery concerning Christ (the Messiah) on account of which I am in prison; That I may proclaim it fully and make it clear [speak boldly and unfold that mystery], as is my duty. 

Colossians 4:3, 4 (AMP)

Paul is asking for specific prayer support. Paul knows the importance of having prayer support as he traveled preaching the gospel. He also knew the "dangers" of preaching, as he ended up in prison several times. He wanted to make sure he saw and opened every possible door to share God's grace with any and all who would listen.

Open a door: Translate "door of utterance", signifies an occasion, opportunity, or entrance, for the doctrine of the Gospel.

The mystery of Christ: The Gospel, which had been hidden from all former times, and which revealed that purpose long hidden in the Divine councils, that the Gentiles should be called to enjoy the same privileges with the Jews.

That I may proclaim it fully: It was a mystery, and he wished to make it manifest - to lay it open, and make all men see it.

Adam Clarke Commentary

Colossians 4: 3, 4 are relevant to each Christian today. We each have a responsibility to share God's truth this each and everyone with whom we have contact. We are to be aware of the opportunities that God presents and use each opportunity to be a testimony for Christ. 

We also need to be praying specifically for each other that we will each have the courage to share about God's love and grace. 

When my heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG), then God's grace and love will shine forth in all I do and say. When I have a reverence for God, I want to honor Him and make full used of each opportunity to share His Gospel.

Where do I stand?

Throughout this year, each day of the month, I'm "Treasure Hunting" in a Psalm. I've created a "Ponder Every Morsel of Truth" Book to record the truths as I learn them. The Sixth of each Month, I'm studying Psalm 43. Here's what Treasure I found today. 

When I first read Psalm 43 today, I immediately thought of the state of our Nation (USA) and how it has became a Nation of the dishonest and unjust. As a Nation, we have ignored God and have decided “we know best”. I thought how this Psalm could have been written today.

For example, recently a news commentary mentioned that the Bible should be re-written, for it’s “out of date”. That is pure arrogance of man. We don’t  “change” the Bible based on what we want. Rather, the Bible is God’s Word. It is an absolute. It does not change. If we don’t agree with what the Bible says, then we are “at fault” and need to readjust our thinking to what God’s Word says. 

The more I thought about this Psalm, I had to pause and back up to the first line... 

Vindicate me, my God.

Psalm 43:1 (NIV)

The Psalmist is asking God to plead his case, to let everyone know that the Psalmist is has not done wrong, rather is living his life as God-pleasing rather than man-pleasing. Would I be so bold as to ask God to plead my case? Could I ask God to plead my case, in other words, am I living a life such as that “the dishonest and unjust” would accuse me? 

The difference between the Psalmist and his accusers is the simple fact that the Psalmist recognizes Who God is, and the redemptive gift God provides. Based on that fact, I too then can ask God to plead my case. 

But when the kindness of God our Saviour, and his love toward man, appeared, not by works done in righteousness, which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy he saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, which he poured out upon us richly, through Jesus Christ our Saviour. Titus 3:4-6 (ASV)

Where do I stand? Because of God’s grace and mercy, I as a child of His. Because of God’s grace and mercy, I am forgiven. Because of God’s grace and mercy, I can ask God to plead my case. Because of God’s grace and mercy.... there are so many benefits! 

Creating a positive day, is not about what I do, rather it’s about WHO I am in Christ Jesus! Knowing I’m forgiven and saved makes for a positive day!