What Paul Prayed For
Paul prayed for the people he loved, noticed what he prayed: (1) That they would understand the will of God. ‘We ask God to give you complete knowledge of His will and to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding.’ Rome was not an easy place to be a Christian, yet Paul wrote: ‘Everyone has heard about your obedience...’ (Romans 16:19 NIV) Obedience to God’s will should be your number one priority. When your name is mentioned, no one should have any doubt as to the level of your commitment to Jesus. (2) That their lives would be pleasing to God. ‘That you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please Him in every way...’ (Colossians 1:10 NIV) When you stand before God to be rewarded you won’t hear the words ‘well said’ or ‘well planned’ but ‘Well done, good and faithful servant...’ (Matthew 25:21 NKJV) (3) That they would prosper in the work God had given them.‘...bearing fruit in every good work...’ (Colossians 1:10 NIV) Nothing brings joy to the heart of a parent like seeing their child succeed. And God feels the same way about you. (4) That they would keep going by drawing on His strength.‘Being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you may have great endurance...’ (Colossians 1:11 NIV) Like a light bulb, you depend on power from another source. So you must stay connected to God. (5) That they would praise God. ‘Giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints...’ (Colossians 1:12 NIV) In other words, live with an attitude of gratitude and a heart of praise.