OCT 8

Colossians 1:9
Memorise Colossians 1:9
“…ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will...”

The second part of Colossians 1:9 deserves study: “…and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding”. Paul’s intercession for the spiritual maturity of the Colossians starts with praying that they may know God’s will. The extent of this knowledge is threefold:

a. That they may be “filled” i.e. to be complete in the knowledge of God’s will (The Greek word for “fulfil” in Colossians 1:25, is the same word used here in Colossians 1:9 for “filled”)
b. That all their wisdom may be based upon this knowledge of God’s will, instead of worldly philosophy (Colossians 2:8)
c. That this knowledge may bring understanding of all things spiritual, as will be revealed by the Holy Spirit (Colossians 1:26)

What a wonderful thing that Paul does to intercede for others that they may know God’s will, instead of selfishly only praying the same for himself! Note also that this intercession was for spiritual blessings rather than physical, that the Colossians should thus pursue spiritual things instead of material things. That was how Paul always patterned His prayers, for he knew what was most important. It was never for material gain of comforts, but only that lives would be more conformed to the will of God.

Dear teen, do you know God’s will to such an extent? Remember that the prayer was for spiritual blessings rather than physical, and this teaches us that God is pleased to answer such prayers. God is not glorified in the giving of good exam results to you, if it is purely for personal gain. Instead, He is glorified in the way that you relied on Him, the way you refused to cheat, the way your motives were pure, and the way you gave Him all the glory instead of taking any for yourself. Indeed, question your motives as to why you pray for good results. Are you hoping for the praise of men, or ambitiously looking to your future prospects, or maybe to just get pressure off your back? Should you not pray instead that God may give you true wisdom in studies to discern everything in this world by His Word, that studies may help you hone your spiritual gifts to serve Him, and that you may be a good spiritual testimony to others in your studies? Dear teen, know God’s will, what He desires for you, instead of fulfilling your own desires.

Thought: To what extent do I know God’s will?
Prayer: May I pray for and pursue spiritual blessings rather than physical.