Begin by reading the passage in Colossians I have named that corresponds to this devotional. As you read especially take note of the many times Paul speaks of the struggle and agony he is experiencing.  

For example, Paul writes, “We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me” (Colossians 1: 28-29, New International Version). 

Paul was in prison when Colossians was written. He was lonely and isolated from the people and work that he loved. He faced agonizing conflicts around what the church believed about the person and work of Jesus. He longed for lost people to find salvation through Jesus Christ.  

If you are a church leader, you understand a life of struggle and even agony. The enemy likes to stir up trouble especially as the church tries to stay focused on finding and making fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ. Someone once said, “There ain’t no mess like a church mess!”

Despite Paul’s setbacks, he stayed on mission, and we can, too. Paul kept going because he was energized by the Holy Spirit. How do we stay plugged in to the Holy Spirit? It is a minute-by-minute obedience to God’s will in every area of life.