We now move into Colossians: our reading plan after Romans took us through Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon (related to Colossians). I closed our second meditation on Philippians 3 with Paul’s reminding us that Jesus is our focus from Colossians 1.15 – 20.

And we’ll see tomorrow that a focus on Jesus prevents our falling into legalism. For now, let’s look at yet another of Paul’s prayers. Maybe that’s why his ministry was so effective!

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.
• 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 1.9 – 12, bulleted for clarity)

Walk worthy:

• Pleasing him
• Bearing fruit
• Increasing in the knowledge of God

Strengthened with all power for:

• Endurance
• Patience

Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. (Colossians 4.2, ESV)