CartColossians 1:1-14: Thanks and Prayer
"GOD BLESS JENNIFER today" may be a typical prayer for a friend as she comes to mind. But what am I specifically asking for? How will I know if my prayer is answered? What difference would it make in Jennifer's life? Paul begins his letter by telling the Colossians why he is thankful for them and what he asks God to do in them. Paul's example gives us a model for encouraging and praying for one another.
Warming Up to God
How does it make you feel when a friend tells you the specific things he or she notices and appreciates about you?
Read Colossians 1:1-14. »
Discovering the Word
- What characteristics of the Colossians cause Paul to always be thankful for them (vv. 3-6)?
- What impresses you about how the gospel was spreading (vv. 5-8)?
- After affirming their strengths, Paul tells the Colossians what he prays for them. What are Paul's requests for how they think and act?
- How might spiritual wisdom and understanding help us to understand God's will (v. 9)?
- According to Paul, true knowledge leads to a "life worthy of the Lord" (v. 10). What qualities does such a life include (vv. 10-12)? How are these qualities related to each other?
Applying the Word
- In what specific ways do you see the qualities in verses 10-12 developing in your life?
- Reread verses 12-14, putting your name in each sentence. How would meditating on these verses help you to appreciate what God has done for you?
Responding in Prayer
Take time to pray for your church or fellowship group, using verses 9-14 as your model.
For Further Study
Experiencing Healing Prayer by Rick Richardson