◄ What Does Colossians 1:9 Mean? ►

Paul opens his epistle to the Colossians expressing his profound joy and grateful thanks for them all, because of their sincere faith in the gospel of Christ, the deep love which they showed for one another and because of the obvious future hope they possessed: "Which is laid up for us in heaven."

Paul rejoiced that in the past, these believers had come to a knowledge of the gospel of grace; in the present, they were demonstrating the love of Christ in their lives; and they looked to the future with joyful hope, knowing that one day they would: "Ever be with the Lord."

The Colossian believers had embraced the glorious gospel of grace, which was given to us by God and revealed to us all through his holy apostles and prophets. The result in the lives of these Christians, was the production of much spiritual fruit. And how this rejoiced the heart of Christ's faithful bond-servant.

The gospel of truth that these believers had embraced so readily, is the same gospel that is freely available to all who will trust on the Lord Jesus Christ: "For the gospel of Christ is the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes," and all who abide in Christ will grow in grace and produce the precious fruit of righteousness.

It was because of their sincere faith in the gospel, their future hope in God's promises, the abundance of fruit being produced in their lives, and the deep love they had for one another, that Paul did not cease to pray for them and to ask that they might be filled with the knowledge of God's will, in all spiritual wisdom, knowledge, and understanding.

Paul prayed that each believer would walk worthy before the Lord, be granted spiritual wisdom and insight, and develop a contented and thankful heart. He also asked that these believers would be granted the power that only comes from above - an inner strength that is perfected in us as we depend on the Lord in all things.

Paul's intercession spans the centuries and continues to be answered by God for all who abide in Christ and trust in the Lord with all their heart. May this prayer be answered in our lives and the lives of those we love. May we live as unto the Lord - with sincere faith, godly love, and a glorious hope that is laid up for us in heaven.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the glorious gospel of grace and the wonderful truths that are contained in Your Word. Help me to abide in Christ and to live my life in total dependence upon You so that I may be fruitful in the place where you have seen fit to place me. I pray that my brothers and sisters in Christ may continue to grow in grace and receive spiritual insight so that they too may live a life that is pleasing to You. This I ask in the name of Jesus Christ my Lord Who alone is worthy to be praised. AMEN.