Praying for You Continually
29th JUNE 2023
We give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying for you continually Since hearing of your faith in Christ Jesus, and the love that you have toward all the saints; Because of the hope that is laid up for you in heaven, which you heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; Which has come to you, even as it also has in all the world, and is bringing forth fruit, just as it is among you, from the day that you heard and knew the grace of God in truth; [Colossians 1:3–6 AFV]
The passage begins with Paul expressing his gratitude and praying for the Colossian believers to God. Paul is overjoyed by their faith in Christ Jesus and love for all the saints. It is important to note that Paul’s thanksgiving is more than just words; it is accompanied by fervent prayer. This emphasises the significance of praying for fellow believers who show genuine love for the body of Christ.
Paul reminds us in Ephesians 2:8 that we are saved by grace through faith. Our faith in Christ Jesus connects us to the divine source of power, allowing us to live transformed lives and show others God’s love. When we pray for believers who demonstrate faith, we acknowledge God’s grace at work in their lives and intercede for their faith to be strengthened.
The Colossian believers’ love extended beyond their immediate circle. By embracing and caring for all the saints, they exemplified Christ’s love. Similarly, 1 John 4:7 exhorts us to love one another because love is given by God, and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. We participate in the work of the Spirit by praying for believers who show love to the saints, fostering unity and harmony within the body of Christ.
Let us commit to interceding fervently for our brothers and sisters, asking God to strengthen their faith, increase their love, and bear abundant fruit through the gospel. May our prayers create a ripple effect in the body of Christ, fostering unity, love, and growth. Let us remember the words of James 5:16, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” As we lift one another in prayer, let us be assured that God hears and answers our heartfelt petitions, bringing about transformation and blessing in the lives of His children.
Heavenly Father, we come before You with grateful hearts, thanking You for the faith and love demonstrated by believers who show love to the saints. We pray that You would strengthen their faith, increase their love, and empower them to bear abundant fruit through the gospel. May our prayers be a source of encouragement and unity in the body of Christ. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.
Further Reading: 1 Thessalonians 3:10–13
Bible In One Year: Proverbs [29–31] & Ecclesiastes [1]
