![]() ![]() We face trials, temptations, and tests from various sources: our pre-Jesus past, criticism for following Jesus, and attacks from our adversary, the devil. Christians today face discouragement, disappointment, pressure, and persecution. They needed empowerment to endure with patience which is what Paul prayed for and what God provided. The Colossians faced criticism, intimidation, and pre-Christian mindsets. We can pray for someone to have an ongoing life of discovery and adventure with Jesus. It is not mere head knowledge but personal knowledge through applying what we learn about Christ to our lives. Effective Christian life and ministry flow from a consistent increase in the knowledge of God. We can pray for other people to bear fruit as they submit to the working of God in their life. Initial salvation kick starts our growth and maturity in Jesus Christ. Fruit trees produce fruit according to the kind of tree they are, and Christians are no different. Fruitfulness is the result of the Holy Spirit's work in individuals. His word choice indicates bearing fruit is present and continual. ![]() Paul prayed the Colossians would honor the Lord by bearing fruit. He prayed the Colossians believers would honor and please the Lord in four ways: fruitfulness, maturity, power, and gratitude. When we don't know what to pray for someone, we can turn to Paul's prayer for the Colossians in chapter 1, verses 9-14, for guidance. Paul had never met the Colossians, yet he prayed a powerful prayer for them. Paul's letter to the Colossians was prompted by a visit from Epaphras, who shared a good report of the congregation and the church's spiritual challenges and doctrinal errors. ![]() The church in Colossae was likely founded by Epaphras, who was converted to Christ during the time of Paul's ministry in Ephesus. However, the church in Colossae was not a church he founded or visited, yet he wrote a personal letter to them. He founded several churches, and many of his letters were to those congregations. The Apostle Paul traveled far and wide, spreading the Gospel message of Jesus Christ. Other times it's a missionary I've never met but our church supports or a ministry I know about. Sometimes the names God wakes me up with are people I know, so I have a general idea of how to pray for them. I could grumble about the interrupted night's sleep or obediently pray. But when God wakes me with a name on my heart, I know he's called me to pray. So, when it's disrupted, I am a little disgruntled. I cherish, protect, and nurture my sleep. "May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy, giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light." - Colossians 1:11-12 ESV ![]()
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