Gems of Knowledge

Today’s One Year Bible Verses: Jeremiah 10:1-11:23, Colossians 3:18-4:18, Psalm 78:56-72, Proverbs 24:28-29

---

The Beauty of Communion

“Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart… Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.” Colossians 4:2, 5–6 (NLT)

There is a beautiful rhythm in these verses — prayer that roots us in Christ, and words that reveal Him to others. Paul begins by reminding us to “devote yourselves to prayer” (Colossians 4:2). Devotion means consistency, commitment, even when it’s not easy. We don’t just casually toss up prayers when we need something; instead, we posture our hearts in ongoing communion with God.

We make time for Him specifically so we can truly commune with Him — not only speaking, but hearing Him too. Prayer becomes interaction, not a one-sided monologue. And as we practice this, we learn to carry that ongoing communion with His Holy Spirit throughout the day. He is always with us, if we will just pay attention and listen.

Notice how Paul instructs us to pray — with an alert mind and a thankful heart. Alertness keeps us spiritually awake to what God is doing and how the enemy may try to distract us. Gratitude keeps us soft and humble, recognizing that every good thing flows from His hand. When we pray this way we allow Him to shapes our perspective, preparing us for the world we step into each day.

Paul then shifts to our outward life: “Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity” (Colossians 4:5). Wisdom here doesn’t mean being cautious to the point of silence; it means carrying ourselves in such a way that Christ shines through us. Every interaction can either build a bridge toward Him or reinforce a wall of misunderstanding.

And how do we build those bridges? With our words: “Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone” (Colossians 4:6). Grace-filled words disarm hostility, plant seeds of hope, and draw people toward Jesus. Attractive here doesn’t mean shallow charm — it means seasoned with love, truth, and beauty that reflect the heart of God.

And this only comes by the Holy Spirit. We are not capable of this kind of wisdom, gratitude, or grace on our own. But when we allow the Spirit to dwell within us, and we listen, He supplies what we lack and makes our words anointed, our actions fruitful, and our lives a testimony.

In short: devotion in prayer shapes devotion in action. A thankful heart before God becomes a gracious voice before others — by the Spirit’s holy grace and power.

Action (5 Minutes with God)

1. Pause for communion – Set aside 5 minutes today to speak and listen to God. This is the whole motive behind these devotionals: to prompt you to spend at least 5 minutes with Him each day.
2. Stay alert & listen – Pay attention to what the Lord is showing and teaching you. Journal it so you remember, then live it out.
3. Walk wisely – Throughout your day, pray continually to the Lord and ask the Holy Spirit what He wants you to know and do in every situation, so you can walk wisely.
4. Speak graciously – Ask the Lord to give you words in every situation that reflect Him — His wisdom, His mercy, and His grace.

Prayer

Holy Spirit, I devote myself to You today. Keep my heart alert, thankful, and attentive to Your voice. Teach me to live wisely, to make the most of every opportunity, and to let my words reflect Your grace. I confess I cannot do this on my own — fill me, guide me, and let my life glorify Jesus in every way. Amen.

To read more 5 Minutes with God devotionals click here.