Paul is writing to people he hasn’t met in a place he’s never visited. His co-worker Epaphras brought the Good News to Colossae and has told Paul about its impact. Paul’s overwhelming response is gratitude for what God has done (vs 3–6). This young church has many challenges and is far from perfect. However, it is in the messiness of real life that Paul sees God at work through his Spirit to produce the fruit that will change the whole world: love. 

We will hear much about what needs to change in this church, but the foundations are strong and that gives Paul confidence in its future (even though he’s writing from a prison cell). Paul’s thankfulness is not about being polite but is drawn from a deep well of hope in God’s faithfulness and power. This small church in a regional town is part of a big plan to change the whole world. God is at work, and that is wonderful to see.

Lord, forgive me that sometimes I do not feel in a thankful mood. Please, by your Spirit, help me to see the many reasons why I should thank you today.

Because I am writing this after months of pandemic lockdown which has depressed our spirits, I marvel even more at Paul’s deliberately positive mindset. Under house arrest, having heard from his trusted friend Epaphras (v 7) about this Colossian church and its troubles, Paul’s reaction is to begin with thanks (v 3) – a joyful note that continues through the whole letter. Thanks to God give a spiritual dynamic which motivates and inspires like nothing else. In contrast to the negatives we shall meet later, he knows the power of positive thanking, because it focuses on what God is doing. That’s always positive. 

Three words focus these thanks: faith, love and hope. Perhaps no surprise there? First, faith in Jesus Christ (v 4). Believers’ trust is foundational and when you hear others’ testimonies they should inspire thanks to God. Can you think of those whose transparent trust in Jesus lights you up? Second, the love you have for all the saints (v 4). When genuine believers show their love to each other, how we should rejoice that Jesus is truly building his kingdom. The word for love is agape – the sacrificial love that Jesus showed especially on the cross. It is so easy to focus on a church’s faults – its disappointments, hurts and divisions. The Colossian church could easily have depressed Paul because it harboured dangerously false teaching, but he focuses on their love for each other (v 8). Third, hope (v 5): ‘faith and love that spring from the hope’ grounded in God’s promises stored in heaven. These three are powerful signs that the gospel is bearing fruit in Colossae. Paul thinks about God’s work for these believers and focuses his thanks on this work. That’s how to be positive in prayer for the church. 

Think about those for whom we can pray thankfully. Reflect on the positive signs of faith, love and hope in your church fellowship because God is at work.