And say to Archippus, “Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it.” Colossians 4:17

As you ride around your community, you will probably see old abandoned buildings and homes where businesses and families once thrived. But difficult times came and brought an end to what those owners thought to be a dream and vision for their life. I recall seeing the start of a big, beautiful home being built in the country, but it was only half way completed and they simply quit.

Today’s passage in Colossians was meant to encourage Archippus to be attentive to his duties in the church and see them to completion. Evidently, he was lacking in his duties and probably ready to give up. The Apostle Paul in a polite way chastised him, yet, encouraged him to never give up his work which the Lord gave him to do.

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10

Maybe you are like Archippus, you are ready to give up something in which you started: a family, a business, your employment, a home improvement project, or more importantly a responsibility you have in your church. God has gifted each human being with certain tasks and abilities to be used for various reasons, and to glorify Him. Don’t give up when things are difficult, when all hope seems to be lost, or when you feel outnumbered in your faith. God has put you in this world to do the work of the Lord, in your family, business, employment, and projects that have been your vision for a while. Those visions might just be placed there by God. Ask God to help you in the difficult times, so you will see your God given tasks to completion.

And say to ______ (your name), “Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it.”