Praying for Growth

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 his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God (Colossians 1:9-10)

Paul didn’t just thank God for the Colossian believers—he prayed for their growth. After hearing from Epaphras about their love in the Spirit, Paul’s response wasn’t to simply celebrate what was already there. He prayed that they would grow even deeper—into spiritual wisdom, understanding, and a life that fully pleased the Lord.

Do you pray like that for other Christians?

If we’re honest, it’s often easier to critique or complain about fellow believers than to intercede for their maturity. But what does complaining profit anyone? Nothing. James 5:16 reminds us that the fervent prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective. Imagine how the Church would flourish if our first instinct wasn’t criticism but was instead prayer—asking God to mature each other in wisdom, fruitfulness, and knowledge of Him.

If that kind of prayer doesn’t stir us, maybe it’s time for a heart check. Pride and self-focus can dull our love for others. But when we genuinely want others to grow in Christ, we reflect the very heart of Jesus—who never stops interceding for us.

So today, who can you pray for? Ask God to deepen their walk. And as you do, you might just find your own heart growing, too.