Guided Journal

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Our time on earth is but a blip—a blink of an eye in comparison to eternity. We get caught up in the things of this world—our jobs, our hobbies, our education, our family—all good things! But we lose focus on the prize: ETERNITY. If you were going on a vacation to a place you've never been, you would probably study it, read about it, search YouTube for insight on how to have the absolute best time when you reach that destination, not missing a thing. How much more, then, should we have our eyes fixed on Heaven?

Philippians 3:15-21

How much do you know about Heaven?
Does the thought of eternity frighten you? (this is normal)
Do you know someone who's there now, waiting on you?
What is the first thing you want to see when you get there?

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What you think about the most determines the direction of your life. Where you fix your eyes is where you will go! A good rule of thumb when downhill skiing or snowboarding through a wooded area is this: Don't look at the tree! If you look at the tree, there's a good chance you'll hit the tree. Instead, look at the path, focusing on where you're going instead of where you don't want to go. The same is true here. Fix your eyes on the things that are true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and commendable. That's where you want to be! That’s where the Lord is.

Philippians 4:1-9

What do you think about the most?
What are 2-3 things that you have focused on lately that bring no eternal value to your soul?

What are 2-3 things that you are thankful for today? Things that are worthy of praise?

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This is a promise from God—not that everything will be easy, but that if it is of God, He will give us the strength and ability to see it through.

Philippians 4:10-23

Look back on your life. When was the last time you felt as though you couldn't get through a hard season or situation? Did God give you strength?

What are you going through right now that seems impossible?
Ask the Lord for strength, wisdom, and the ability to overcome.

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Given that Colossians was written partially for correction, Paul had every opportunity to dive right in and rebuke the false teachings in Colossae from the start. Notice instead how he began his letter by expressing his thanks for them and writing a prayer for their spiritual growth. Before he corrects, he says, "we haven't stopped praying for you." Paul prioritizes encouragement and empowerment.

Colossians 1:1-14

When was the last time you prayed a prayer like Paul's for someone in your life? How can you make that more of a habit in your prayer life?
Who is God leading you to pray for today?

Pray verses 9-14 over someone and insert their name into this verse as you pray.

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In order for the Colossians to fully grasp the truth, they needed to know the full character of God. His sovereignty, centrality, and totality are the same today. He holds all things together. On the cross, He reconciled us; our responsibility now is to "remain grounded and steadfast in the faith" (verse 23) and walk in obedience.

Colossians 1:15-23

How do verses 15-20 change your perspective on the magnitude of Christ? Culture can easily shift, and in the process, distract us from seeing God for who He is. What has distracted you recently from your walk with God?

Spend a moment and pray that God would help you to overcome distractions.

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Regardless of Paul's situation, his mission remained consistent: he strived to help fellow believers mature in their faith and make the Word of God fully known. Even from prison, he knew that the Lord would use it for good, and he rejoiced in his suffering because of this hope. Because of his closeness to the Father, Paul didn't let his circumstances shift his focus from the purpose God gave him.

Colossians 1:24-29

In this present season, what do you believe God is calling you to do?
What circumstances in your life (good or bad) could the enemy potentially use to distract or discourage you from fulfilling your calling?

Scripture tells us to consider it a great joy when we face trials because it builds endurance and maturity in us. Paul modeled this, as he viewed his time in prison as an opportunity to build others up. Take a moment in prayer to ask God to remind you of this when difficult moments arise this week.

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