At any point in our day, week, or month, there are a myriad of things to pray for. Health issues, trials, money worries, and upcoming events make up the normal list of prayers that we offer. In Colossians 1:9, Paul teaches us by example what consumed the primary nature of his prayer life. He tells the Colossian believers, "And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of [God's] will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding." Paul prays that this group of people that were facing all the normal pressures of life, as well as the invasion of false thinking, would clearly, completely, and utterly know the will of God in their lives.
This is certainly a key question for all of us to ask: “What is God’s will for me”? This has particular relevance to anyone facing a big decision: should I get married, should I date this person, should I switch jobs, should I move my family, how should I school my child, etc. We often look for specific answers in Scripture for these questions and miss the overall understanding of God’s will. God’s will is defined in Scripture as a passion to know His Word and to obey it in its entirety.
When life does not make sense - Psalm 143:10, "Deliver me from my enemies, O Lord! I have fled to you for refuge! Teach me to do your will, for you are my God! Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground!"
To Be Transformed - Romans 12:2, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
To Live in Wisdom - Ephesians 5:15, "Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.
To Grow in Submission - 1 Peter 2:13-15, "Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution…for this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people."
May we pray for the right things, and walk in God's gracious, sanctifying will for us!
