Colossians Week 4: Prayer + Actions + Words

Prayer + Actions + Words
A Small Group Discussion Guide
based on a sermon preached by Pastor Ballog, 7/27/25

Opening Prayer:

"Dear Heavenly Father, we gather to explore Your Word and how it speaks to our lives. Open our hearts and minds to Your truths, and guide our discussion with wisdom and grace. Amen."

Scripture Readings:

- Colossians 4:2-6
- Ephesians 6:18-20
- Matthew 5:13-16

Discussion Topics and Related Questions:

1. The Role of Prayer:

- Topic Overview:
   Discuss the importance of prayer in strengthening faith and guiding actions.

- Questions:
  - How do you define "devotion to prayer" in your life?
  - Share an experience where prayer has impacted your life or someone else's.
  - How can we overcome common distractions in prayer?

2. Sharing the Gospel Boldly:

- Topic Overview:  
   Explore the need for boldness in sharing the gospel and how prayer can equip us for this task.

- Questions:
  - What does it mean to share the gospel with boldness?
  - Reflect on a time when you felt hesitant about sharing your faith. What held you back?
  - How can prayer prepare us for opportunities to share the gospel?

3. Acting Wisely:

- Topic Overview:
   Examine how our actions toward outsiders reflect our faith and make the most of our time.

- Questions:
  - In what ways can we act wisely toward those around us?
  - How do our actions serve as a witness to our faith?
  - Discuss practical ways we can be more intentional in our actions.

4. The Power of Words:

- Topic Overview:  
   Discuss the impact of our words and how they can either build up or tear down.

- Questions:
  - How does gracious speech differ from everyday communication?
  - What challenges do you face in using words wisely?
  - How can we practice the word test (true, kind, necessary, timely) in our interactions?

5. Being Salt and Light:

- Topic Overview:  
   Consider what it means to be the salt and light in this world and how it connects to our daily lives.

- Questions:
  - In what ways can we be salt and light in our communities?
  - Share examples of individuals or situations where being light made a difference.
  - How can we ensure our light consistently shines before others?

Follow-up Exercise:

Encourage the group to choose one practical action step from the discussion to work on in the coming week. It might include setting aside more time for prayer, planning to speak with someone about faith, or actively practicing gracious speech.

Closing Prayer:

"Heavenly Father, thank you for this time together. As we go out into the world, help us to be devoted to prayer, wise in our actions, and gracious with our words. Empower us to be the salt and light in our communities, bringing glory to Your name. Amen."