Today’s Readings: 1 Kings 14; Colossians 1; Ezekiel 44; Psalms 97–98
As Paul faithfully writes his letter to the church of Colosse I’m reminded of the power of prayer. The impact Christians can have on your neighborhood, community and around the world through prayer is limitless. Our love for God should be mirrored for other Christians so we can lift up others everywhere. Paul’s timely prayer was meant to influence the Colossians to be wise and remind them to use their knowledge to learn more about Him and put what they learned into action by helping others. These words of love can influence us into action today.
I can often pray for the day, family, small group requests, and other situations that influence my heart or thoughts throughout the day. Paul teaches us how to pray for other Christians. This intentional letter and prayer is important as we pray for missionaries, pastors, and leaders around the world who influence hearts through the Holy Spirit. There is much pain around the US and around the world and our prayers to God are necessary to give thanks, wisdom,and love to others.The Tyndale Life Application Study Bible shares a study pattern by Paul for prayers to other Christians that I thought was simple and God filled.
- Be thankful for their faith and changed lives (Col. 1:3).
- Ask God to help them know his will (Col. 1:9).
- Ask God to give them spiritual wisdom and understanding (Col. 1:9).
- Ask God to help them live to honor and please him (Col. 1:10).
- Ask God to give them more knowledge of himself (Col. 1:10).
- Ask God to give them strength for endurance and patience (Col. 1:11).
- Ask God to fill them with joy and thankfulness (Col. 1:12).
And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. (Col. 1:9-10)
As believers we all have these same basic needs. These seven steps can help other Christians grow spiritually in order to make a difference in those they influence.
How many people in your life could be touched if you prayed in this way?
Dear God, Thank you for who you are, and the grace you have given us in order to continue to go out into the world and share your love. We pray for all Christians here and around the world to keep you Lord at the center of all we do. Give our leaders, missionaries, and pastors the wisdom to be able to share your story with others. Give them the patience and endurance to withstand the enemy and continue to build your kingdom until you return. Thank you for the joy we have because of who you are. Amen