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.