Day 114/260: Read Colossians 1

There is so much to learn from Paul’s unceasing prayer for the saints at Colosse.

He prayed that they would be filled with the knowledge of God’s “will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding.” This did not relieve the Christians there of the responsibility of seeking the information from the Scriptures. Effort was required on the part of the Colossians.

Much in the same way, Paul prayed that they “may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him.” The apostle did not request of God that the Colossian brethren become mindless robots, but rather that they would seek to put into practice the information they had studied from the Scriptures. Again we see that effort was required on the part of the Colossians.

Paul wanted these saints to be “fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy.” Do you see the pattern? Paul wanted the Colossians to glorify God, but it would take effort on their part.

Effort is still required of us today, if we are to be faithful and fruitful, if we are to increase in the wisdom and knowledge of the Scriptures. We must seek His will by studying it, and do His will by applying it.

Memory (Fill in the blanks)

Hebrews 11:6. But without faith it is __________ to please Him, for he who comes to God __________ believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently __________ Him.

Pray

Pray for your local congregation what Paul prayed for the Colossians.