… 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. (Col. 1:9-10)
Paul’s prayer for the Colossians gives us another glimpse of a life that pleases God.
That word filled literally means to cram full. Adds something to the picture doesn’t it! He’s not looking for a nice polite kind of full. Paul wants them so full that it’s been squished down and packed to the brim. Imagine knowing and understanding God’s will that well.
And there is a reason for it. It’s not just to say “got that” and check it off a list.
We’re supposed to walk, that is live. That knowledge means we’ll know how to live in a manner worthy of him. To live in a way that adds to his reputation and makes him proud.
Fully (that is all and every way) pleasing him.
And bearing fruit. Only a living plant bears fruit. First, we show we’re alive by the things we do. And second, by increasing (growing) in the knowledge of God.
This time, in verse 10, Paul uses a different word for knowledge. This one carries the idea of recognition or discernment.
I wonder if it is like exercise. The more you use the knowledge you have, the more you walk worthy, and the more you are able to recognize what will please him. And walk worthier.
What a prayer! And, of course, you realize that prayer is for us, too. We can pray it – and we can live it!