Mission: Impossible
Be Wise

Scripture Reading: Colossians 4:2-6

Key Verse: Colossians 4:5

Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.

As we wrap up this week’s emphasis on “Mission: Impossible,” I want to look at Paul’s exhortation to the Colossian Christ followers.  The apostle understood the difficulties of our mission and the cunning tricks of the evil one.  So the apostle warns them to be “wise in the way you act toward outsiders.”  Jesus was the first to warn His followers this way.  In Matthew 10:16, “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves.  Therefore, be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.”

            It is not easy to live among an unbelieving society and be an effective witness.  Questions about how to do these relationships will always challenge us.  What should we participate in?  What should we laugh at?  How should we dress or what social events should we attend?  These are tough questions, but God has promised us wisdom in James: “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5).

            Our scriptural text also reminds us to make the most of every opportunity.  God will divinely open a door of opportunity to share with someone the good news of the gospel.  We are to pray for—be alert to–each and every one.  The Holy Spirit will help us as, by faith, we step into those opportunities and “give an answer for the hope we have” (1 Peter 3:15).

Father, the mission seems impossible, but I know you go before me making it possible.  I will walk into today with faith.  In Jesus’ name, amen.