Qualified

Colossians 1:11-13 strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; 12 giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. 13 He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love.
 
I’M sitting here in awe of these words. I’ve read the Bible every day for the past 35 years; yet, more and more I am astonished by the power of God’s Word. Our sovereign Lord speaks so clearly of His love, compassion, grace, strength and salvation. He overwhelms us with wonder as we pause to consider, “How could I ever deserve even a tiny gram of grace the eternal God has for me?”
    On this day, if you know someone who is hurting for any reason, would you take this scripture to them? Read it to them, or perhaps you could pray for your friend in this manner: “Father God, may you strengthen my friend with all power, according to your glorious might, that my friend would endure this hard time with patience and even joy, giving thanks to you, Father, you have qualified my friend to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. Father, you have delivered my friend from the domain of darkness and transferred my friend to the kingdom of your beloved Son, who has redeemed my friend from sin. You have opened your heart to my friend. In Jesus’ name I gratefully pray, Amen.”
    You and I are born unqualified to be with God. But graciously God acted. Lovingly Jesus died. Eternally the Holy Spirit raises you from the pit of darkness into the glorious light.
     Do you know Jesus is your Lord? Be in awe God has qualified you. Are yet unsure of Jesus? Then pray to him. Listen for his response. Rejoice in his eternal commitment to qualify you. Confess. Believe. Get qualified in Jesus. Pray for others to do the same. Live in joy.
 
Life Thought: Psalms 118:27 The Lord is God, and he has made his light shine upon us. With boughs in hand, join in the festal procession
up to the horns of the altar.