Paul's Prayer Pattern
PRAYER, IN ITS SIMPLEST FORM is a supplication for benefits either for one's self (petition) or for others (intercession). In a wider sense, it is an act of worship which covers all soul in its approach to God. Supplication is at the heart of it, for prayer always springs out of a sense of need and a belief that God rewards those who diligently seek Him. (Hebrews 11:6). Sometimes we wonder how to pray for missionaries and other leaders we have never met. Paul never met the Colossians, but he faithfully prayed for them. His prayers teach us how to pray for others, whether we know them or not. The passage in Colossians 1:9-12 is a good example and worth studying diligently. All believers have the same basic needs. What is true about Colossians that day is true about us today. Colossians 1:9 So we have not stopped praying for you since we first heard about you. We ask God to give you complete knowledge of his will and to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding. 10...