Scripture - Col. 1:12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.
Observation - Paul, writing to the Colossians, spends a few lines encouraging them because of their great reputation. They were originally saved under the ministry Epaphras (v7) who shared many details about their experience. Paul, after sharing several amazing facts about Jesus, encourages them to continue giving thanks to the Father for what He had accomplished in them.
Application - I am reminded from this verse of what initially qualifies me for all of the inheritance of heaven: the sacrifice of the Father by means of the crucifixion of his sinless son! On my own, I am no worthy, nor can I qualify myself. This is one of those things that is easy to forget. After a success or two, a sacrifice or two, and an act of service or two, it is very easy to feel like I have earned heaven and even deserve it. This verse is an "in your face" reminder - the inheritance I enjoy and will enjoy to greater measure some day has been made available to me only because of God's grace!
Prayer - Lord, thank you today for your reminder. Thank you for all you have done for me! All of life's blessings are a gift from you!
