Colossians (The Message version)

Colossians 4:2-6
Pray diligently. Stay alert, with your eyes wide open in gratitude. Don't forget to pray for us that God will open doors for telling the mystery of Christ... Pray that every time I open my mouth I'll be able to make Christ plain as day to them.

Use your head as you live and work among outsiders. Don't miss a trick. Make the most of every opportunity. Be gracious in your speech. The goal is to bring out the best in others in a conversation, not put them down, not cut them out.

Colossians 3:22-25
Servants, do what you're told by your earthly masters. And don't just do the minimum that will get you by. Do your best. Work from the heart for your real Master, for God, confident that you will get paid in full when you come into your inheritance. Keep in mind always that the ultimate Master you're serving is Christ. The sullen servant who does shoddy work will be held responsible. Being a follower of Jesus doesn't cover up bad work.