A Pleasing Prayer [Colossians 1:9-14]

By Pastor Jason LimMany people struggle with prayer. One way we can learn to pray is to study how Paul prays. In Colossians 1 v9-14, Paul writes about a prayer that is pleasing to God.1. The PetitionPaul prays for the Colossians to be filled with the knowledge of God's will in spiritual wisdom and understanding. He prays that they will not only know "what" God desires as described in His word, but also the "why" and the "how". He wants them to grow in the information, significance and application of God's word.2. The PurposeThe knowledge that Paul prayed for is not for mere academic pursuit, but for their walk. He longs not just for their information, but also their transformation. He prays for the Colossians that they will walk in a way worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him, having understood the counsel and wisdom of His Word.3. The PictureWhat does a life pleasing to the Lord look like?a. Fruitfulness- he or she will be full of good worksb. Fellowship- he or she will enjoy communion and intimacy with Godc. Fortitude- he or she will demonstrate patience/endurance with joy and thanksgiving in the midst of pain and difficulties.When was the last time you prayed like Paul?What is your chief concern in prayer? You or God?What is the content of your prayer? A shopping list of the mundane only, or the spiritual insight and obedience that Paul spoke of?What is your commitment to prayer like? Will it be regular and repeated like Paul's?