Praying in God’s Will

[cmc]

April 15, 2009

Early Light Daily Devotional from In Touch Ministries


READ | Colossians 1:10-14

Paul fervently desired that the body of Christ—individually and corporately—become spiritually mature. Knowing that such growth impact the world as the Lord had planned, the apostle asked that we as believers would know His will and then . . .

Live a godly life (v. 10a). Paul prayed for our character, conversation, and conduct to be consistent with the Savior’s. Since Christians are His representatives, their lives are to be an extension of His—with eyes that look compassionately at others, hands that offer forgiveness and love, and feet engaged in service. A believer’s character, while imperfect, should increasingly reflect His righteousness.

Make our life count (v. 10b). In God’s eyes, not everything we do is fruitful—much of our activity stems from a desire to please self or others. But all that matters is what’s done in obedience to our Father. Jesus spoke about the importance of bearing much fruit, which is possible only when we stay connected with Him (John 15:5).

Experience God’s power (v. 11). Through the Holy Spirit’s presence, we have all we need to do our Father’s will.

Remain committed and grateful (v. 12). God answers according to His perfect timing. We must be steadfast in prayer and grateful for everything He’s already done.

Whether we pray these verses for ourselves or for others, we can know that our petitions are in accordance with the Lord’s will. And 1 John 5:14-15 tells us that praying in this way carries the wonderful assurance that God is going to respond affirmatively.

[Samsonsworld]

Have you ever wondered what is meant by 'bearing fruit'?

Matthew 12
33"Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit.


Paul tells us in Galation 5:

22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control.

[cmc]

I've always thought of it as something that I accomplish or anything that could be described as a result of my actions and/or faith. In other words: like actual fruit, it's something that grows in order to add flavor & needed nutrients for health to sustain life for others.

[Samsonsworld]

John 15, used in your first post, Jesus says the following.


5"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit;

10If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love,

12My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.



I probably thought something similar and I only bring this up because I think it is often used in a very different context. But I very much believe other people feed off of and are sustained by our love.

[cmc]

Thanks for sharing, it's just what I needed to read tonight, especially this part:
My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.