“We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy, always thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light. For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins.”
Colossians 1:11-14 NLT
What is the direction of prayer? For many Christians, prayer is a means to talk to God about needs. Though there is nothing innately wrong with this, prayer can be something much more. For Paul, prayer became something far greater. It was an opportunity to intercede on behalf of people who were mutually beloved between God and himself. The intercession was not in difference to God’s will but in line with his character. As such, Paul’s prayer centered less upon needs and more upon growth. He wanted people to grow in their trust and maturity if their relationship with God. He wanted them to grow in such a way that when they encountered trials, they could be confident enough in God’s providence, that they would turn their anxiety into praise and getting to see how God provides. Too often we pray for providence without maturity and growth. But as Paul’s prayerful heart illustrates, we can pray for both. Ultimately, this prayer brings all the blessings we will ever need in our faith.
JOSH McGARY. COM 