Scripture: Colossians 4:2-6 & 1 Peter 3:13-17
Devotional Thought:
Paul wrote these words from prison—literally in chains—yet his focus wasn’t on his circumstances. He was asking for prayer that he would have opportunities to share the gospel and the clarity to do it well. Even in confinement, Paul understood he was sent.
Living sent doesn’t require a passport or a pulpit. It happens in the ordinary rhythms of life: the carpool line, the break room, the neighborhood sidewalk, the family dinner table. Paul’s instruction is practical: be devoted to prayer, be watchful for opportunities, and let your words be full of grace.
Peter adds another dimension: be ready. Not aggressive or argumentative, but prepared—with gentleness and respect. The hope we carry should be so evident in our lives that people ask about it. Our job is simply to have an answer ready when they do.
The mission field isn’t somewhere ‘out there.’ It’s wherever you are today. Your workplace, your gym, your kids’ school, your neighborhood—these are your mission fields. Live with your eyes open.
Reflection Questions:
1. Think about your typical week. Where do you have natural, repeated contact with people who don’t yet know Jesus?
2. If someone asked you today, ‘What gives you hope?’—how would you answer?
Application:
Write out a 2-3 sentence answer to the question: ‘Why do you have hope?’ Practice saying it out loud. Being prepared starts with knowing what you would say.