Paul knew the importance of strategic prayer in his own life and the lives of others. And he knew what to pray for. His prayers focused on spiritual issues. He knew that if those he was praying for were spiritually mature, they could handle anything.
We, however, sometimes have it backward. We pray about physical matters, not realizing that the real battles are fought in the spiritual realm, not the physical. That’s why Paul stated that “our struggle is not against flesh and blood” (Ephesians 6:12). That’s also why Paul urged believers to take up the full spiritual armor of God (verse 13). And when that’s been done, Paul says to pray always… for all the saints (verse 18).
Your prayers to God for believers and unbelievers are extremely important. So do what Paul did based on Colossians 1:9-12:
- Ask God to help others know what He wants them to do with their lives (verse 9).
- Ask God to give others a desire for a deeper spiritual understanding (verse 9).
- Ask God to help others live life in a way that pleases Him (verse 10).
- Ask God to help others understand their spiritual gifts and exhibit the fruit of ministry (verse 10).
- Ask God to give others strength to endure life’s trials (verse 11).
- Ask God to give others patience when dealing with trying people (verse 11).
- Ask God to fill others with joyful thanks as they live for Him (verse 12).
Read Praying for the Right Things on Elizabeth & Jim George.
Jim and Elizabeth George
Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people
live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14
million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of
Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:
- Simplify life by focusing on God’s priorities.
- Appreciate God’s Word and apply it to everyday situations.
- Respond to circumstances with confidence by seeing yourself through God’s loving eyes.
- Increase closeness in marriage by serving and honoring each other.
- Powerfully shape the hearts of children and teenagers.
- Enjoy greater intimacy with God.
Learn more about Jim and Elizabeth George here.
Related Articles
The holidays are a special time for family, friends, and faith. The faith part can be difficult when you share the family table with unbelievers, but it doesn’t have to be. God calls us to love (John 15:12-13). God is love (1 John 4:8) and we are made in his image (Genesis 1:27). We are to walk a...
Read More
Holidays should be a time of joy accompanied by family and friends. There is really no need to stress over the details. It’s a time to be thankful and celebrate peace. We can eliminate most of the busyness of the holidays by simply planning ahead, and not taking on too many major projects.
Read More
Over the years I’ve encountered many life changing verses of scripture during my time of bible study. In particular, Luke 1:5-6 has really challenged me in my own spiritual growth...
Read More
