Listening & Learning — A Devotional

Colossians 4:4

Plain and Simple

Plain and Simple. Colossians 4:4. When we pray for others, we stop being mere spectators and become active participants in their efforts, struggles, suffering, and victories. Our relationship with God at the throne of grace enables us to connect with those who work for God wherever He has placed them.

The Gospel should never be presented in a vague or obscure way. People need to understand and have the right to know what we mean when we preach the message of the Gospel. One thing I always ask the Father when I prepare and pray before speaking to the people as a messenger of the Lord is, "Lord, help me make the message clear!"

When I think about how to best present a subject while preparing to preach the Gospel, I must always make sure I don't distract from the main goal of preaching by getting sidetracked or focusing on the wrong details. Our task is to proclaim Christ as the Savior of sinners, urging them to believe what the Bible teaches and pointing them to Christ. The true and primary purpose of preaching the Gospel is to inspire them to want to receive Christ as their personal Savior. "Lord, I want to speak with godly fear!"

When reading scripture publicly, we should do so with reverence, respect, and clear voice, emphasizing the main point of each sentence. When explaining the text, there should be no pretense or imagination that clouds its meaning or purpose. "Lord, when I read, make the scriptures clear!" The explanations about the Word may need to be carefully tailored to the audience so they understand where and why they are in God’s Word, making it personal for them. The origins of their situation and the dangers of staying in their natural state should be clearly and compassionately presented as warnings. Taking time to show how scripture can be applied to bring salvation to lost souls now is important. "Lord, when I explain the meaning, make it clear!"

When I use illustrations, I hope they help to bring clear light and understanding to the point I want to communicate. Perhaps the experiences I've had could serve as windows in the night for those still in darkness. Through these windows of illustration, may the light of life shine brightly and bring the truth of God to them personally as the truth of the word becomes personal. "Lord, by the power of the Spirit, please draw near!" As I present the message in a way that resonates with the minds and hearts of sinners, may they be moved to come to the Lord Jesus Christ by faith, and may the urgency of the message touch at least some seeking sinners! "Lord, by Thy grace, help me to make it clear!"