Over 50 million students are headed back to school in America. Millions of students mean millions of teachers. Unfortunately, of those teachers, some will need to call in sick. An estimated 15,000 educators are ill on any given school day – so substitute teachers must fill in the gaps. Regrettably, students often take advantage of their replacement instructors. So when a returning educator gets a good report in her absence, it’s a big deal.

Rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.   Colossians 2:5

Paul must have felt like one of those absent teachers when he received good news from the church in Colossae. He brags in today’s passage on how the new Christians were in order and standing strong in their faith. Paul knew how easy it was to fall away when the teacher wasn’t around. He’d seen it happen in many other churches.

Christ is the ultimate teacher. What you can learn through Him is limitless. There is no substitute for His truth. Is your life is a reflection of “good order” and firm faith? Ask God to strengthen your character, and then intercede for your nation’s leaders. Pray He will give them discernment when it comes to making choices that affect America. You’ll make Him proud when He returns.

Recommended Reading: Matthew 25:14-29