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Stick it out over the long haul - not [with] the grim strength of gritting your teeth but the glory-strength God gives. His strength endures the unendurable and spills over into joy.
- Colossians 1:10 (MSG)
The long haul...sounds like a difficult trip, on-foot, with a great big, backpack.
If we struggle through the hard things feeling alone, life becomes a long, tense trip.
God says He has a strength for us that’s not from our own resources.
God says His strength is enough for any and every situation.
Don’t be defeated by your limits, that’s where you stop and God starts!
TODAY: God has a plan to be the strength where I have none. Fearing our limits must go and take all doubt and unbelief with it!
My grace is sufficient for you, for [my] power is perfected in [your] weakness. 2 Corinthians 12:9
With Love,
Paper Sunday
Living a life that pleases God isn’t about perfection—it’s about direction. It’s about choosing, day by day, to grow, to respond differently, and to stay rooted in Him. Take a moment to reflect on where you are and where God may be leading you next.
Journal & Reflect
• In what areas of your life do you feel God inviting you to grow right now?
• What does “pleasing God” look like in your everyday routines?
• Where have you seen spiritual fruit in your life recently?
• What is one intentional step you can take today to live more aligned with Him?
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Colossians 1:10 (MSG) mean?
It emphasizes living in a way that honors God through growth, good works, and deepening knowledge of Him—not striving for perfection, but pursuing a faithful, fruitful life.
How can I live a life that pleases God?
By staying connected to Him, making daily choices that reflect His character, and allowing your life to produce spiritual fruit over time.
What does “bearing fruit” mean in this verse?
It refers to visible evidence of faith—like love, patience, kindness, and obediencein how you live and interact with others.
Is spiritual growth supposed to be slow?
Yes, growth is often gradual and consistent. This verse encourages steady progress rather than instant change.
Prayer
God, Help me to live a life that truly pleases You—not out of pressure, but out of love. Grow me in the areas where I’m weak and strengthen my desire to follow You daily. Let my life bear fruit that reflects Your goodness, even in small moments. Teach me to walk closely with You and trust the process of growth. Amen.
Message from Kara Heckel, founder of Paper Sunday
This verse always reminds me that faith isn’t about getting everything right—it’s about growing in the right direction. Colossians 1:10 encourages me to focus less on perfection and more on progress, trusting that God is shaping something meaningful over time. If you ever feel like your growth is slow or unseen, you’re not alone—and you’re not behind. God is working in every step, and I’m so thankful we get to walk this journey together. Blessings today and always...
Applying this to your Daily Routine
Take time to reflect, pray, and process what God is teaching you through every season. Our Personalized Prayer Journal was designed to help you grow deeper in faith—one day at a time–turning intention into habit. Many people use journals to revisit verses like these and reflect throughout the week.
Today's devotional pairs beautifully with the Birds in Paradise Personalized Scripture Journal
