Good morning.
"I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy." (Philippians 1:3-4)
Looking at Paul’s prayers we see that they were Christ-centered and kingdom-related. He prayed that people know Jesus, pattern their life after Him, and carry out God’s will. Paul prayed for believers to be filled with spiritual wisdom and understanding and to walk in a worthy manner. He prayed that they would please the Lord, be fruitful, and increase in their knowledge of God. He asked that they be strengthened with the Spirit’s power and exhibit steadfastness and patience.
Paul wasn’t ignoring the people’s physical and emotional needs when he wrote to the Colossians, rather, he knew that God’s answers to these prayers were the way believers would triumph in the situations facing them. Then they would have strength to persevere and be good witnesses during difficult times.
God wants us to talk to Him about our day and bring our personal requests, but He also desires that we pray for kingdom concerns — prayers for others’ salvation and for their spiritual growth.
We can pray the prayer Paul prayed, for ourselves, for our family and friends. God delights to answer such prayers because they are all part of what He desires for us.
Blessings.
Mike and Daphne
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