Christians often wonder what they should pray for other believers, especially when they have not seen them for a while. One reason for this concern is that we can limit prayer to specific circumstances in a person’s life rather than focussing on ongoing spiritual matters that are common to all Christians.
Although Paul and his friends would have some knowledge of the circumstances facing the Christians in Colosse, they would not have exact knowledge of their immediate temporal needs. But that did not prevent them interceding daily for the Colossian Christians. What did they pray for?
They prayed that the Colossians would have spiritual wisdom and understanding so to live according to God’s will. In order to make spiritual progress, they needed to be submissive to God’s holy requirements. Although they did not have the New Testament, they would have been taught by Epaphras the implications of the gospel. They also would have access to the demands of God contained in the Old Testament.
The obedience that Paul prayed for was to be continuous, with full commitment to Christ the Lord. After all, the life he lived for us was continuous and fully committed. While we know that no Christian can live a totally dedicated life, that is not a reason for not praying that they will be as dedicated as possible. Such a way of living, while not perfect, gives pleasure to the One who died for us on the cross.
Such consecration has two benefits. One is fruitfulness in every area of Christian living. The other is growth in the knowledge of God. Paul probably means experiential knowledge of God’s power (Paul mentions that power in three ways in verse 11, and it is amazing that such power is available to sinners). The experience of that power brings persistence in serving God, perseverance despite the circumstances, and a growing sense of God-given joy in our hearts.
What should I pray today for my fellow Christians?
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