THEME:
In Ephesians 5:16, the Apostle Paul says, “make the best use of the time, because the days are evil.” And they are. What can we do about it? We can use our words to make a difference. Through purposeful prayer and kind words, we can draw people to Jesus. We can speak our lives for the glory of God.
KEY SCRIPTURE:
Colossians 4:2-6
Colossians 4:2-6
Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. 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— that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak. Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.
The most important way to speak your life for God’s glory is to devote yourself to prayer
A devoted Christian faithfully perseveres in prayer
Nehemiah 2:4–5
Then the king said to me, “What are you requesting?” So I prayed to the God of heaven. And I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, and if your servant has found favor in your sight, that you send me to Judah, to the city of my fathers’ graves, that I may rebuild it.”
A devoted Christian stays alert to spiritual threats and prays for protection
A devoted Christian prays with a grateful heart
Romans 8:28
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
A.W. Tozer
“The grateful heart is a beginning of greatness. It is an expression of humility. It is a foundation for prayer.”
A devoted Christian prays for gospel doors to open
Colossians 4:3-4
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— that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.
BLESS
B = Begin with prayer
L = Listen to people’s story
E = Eat meals with people (the power of the table!)
S = Serve by finding ways to meet their needs
S = Share your story
Colossians 4:5-6
Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.
Your inner character gives credibility to what you say
How to Speak My Life for the Glory of God
Through Personal Influence
Serve in Tangible Ways
Rely on the Holy Spirit