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Praying Effectively

Colossians 1:9-12

 

The Apostle Paul wrote the passages we read this evening to the Colossian Church. From these passages we know the specific requests he made known that are just as applicable to all Christians today as they were to the Church at Colosse in Paul’s day.

 

  1. Paul asked for believers to understand God’s plan for their lives. Now the Lord often does not reveal everything at once, but He will give enough details for us to trust and follow His way.
  2. Paul prayed that the believer’s would conduct themselves in a manner worthy of Christ and pleasing unto Him. Paul wanted their lives to be consistent with their true spiritual identity. A follower of Jesus is evident to other people because of lifestyle and spiritual fruit. (Gal. 5:22-23)
  3. To bear fruit in every good work. The Lord desires that our actions bring Him glory. We all seem to be very busy, but are the activities that fill our time eternally valuable?
  4. To grow in the knowledge of God. There are books, sermons, tapes, radio, tv, and technology everywhere with information about the Bible. But the Apostle was not just talking about facts. He speaks of an understanding of the heart, not just a mental grasp of knowledge.
  5. To be strengthened according to His power. All of us need strength outside of ourselves. Sometimes it takes being driven to our knees before we relinquish control and instead trust in God’s Power! 
  6. To walk in gratitude. When we realize where all good gifts originate, we can live with thankfulness. Contentment and joy come from a grateful heart, not from circumstances.



Don’t let the busyness of life squeeze out your prayer time. Communion with the Lord is vital to a healthy relationship with Him.