Read Colossians 1:10-14

Today, let’s look at the content of the prayer that Paul lifts up for the Colossian church. There is much to learn from what Paul believes is essential to pray for these believers.

First, Paul prays for them to receive knowledge of God’s will.

We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of His will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives… Colossians 1:9b NIV

It is comforting to know that Christians have always desired to know God’s will for their lives. According to this prayer, discovering the knowledge of God’s will comes from the leadership of the Holy Spirit who gives “all wisdom and understanding”. (How often have we sought guidance from our own strength to discover God’s will rather than to seek His guidance in prayer?)

Next Paul prays for these Christians to use this knowledge to live a Godly life as a testimony for both the church and the Roman world to see.

… so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God… Colossians 1:10 NIV

Knowing God’s will should lead to a living out of God’s will through living a Godly life that reflects our growth in Christ as we walk with Him each day.
Third, Paul prays for the strength of this church as it faces difficult circumstances.

…being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience… Colossians 1:11 NIV

To persevere in our faith takes the strength that can only come from God. Through His power, we can remain faithful through every circumstance.

Finally, Paul prays that the Colossian believers would have hearts filled with the joy that comes from God’s grace that has rescued them from sin and eternal death.

…and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of His holy people in the kingdom of light. For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

The reality of what Jesus paid for us on the cross should always fill our hearts with gratitude for the redemption we have found through His sacrifice.

Questions to consider…
What specific aspect of this prayer stands out the most to you? Why?
What part of the prayer do you need most in your life today?
Ask God today to grant your heart these same things that Paul prays for the Colossians.