“9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God” (Colossians 1:9-10 KJV).
In the KJV, the expression “knowledge of God” occurs three in the OT and five times in the NT. Paul’s incessant prayer for the Colossians (1:9) is not that they would increase their giving to support the worthy ministry of the Church. Neither was he asking for their evangelistic success in numerically growing the population of disciples in obedience to the Great Commission. But, his petition to God was foremost that the Colossians would “be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding” (1:9) so that they would “walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing” (1:10). He lists “being fruitful in every good work” (1:10) alongside “increasing in the knowledge of God” (1:10).
The reason converts fall away, superficially grow, do not change their conduct appreciably from their former life, do not produce more disciples, or change the Church for better, is they have not been “filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding” (1:10). How can we tell that they have not been “filled with the knowledge of His will” (1:9)? They are not “fruitful in every good work” (1:10), neither are they “increasing in the knowledge of God” (1:10).
In the rushed existence of our workaday world, reading this demands more time than most can afford. But, those who can read this both have the benefit of “increasing in the knowledge of God” (1:10), which God deems to be of great value, and your light will shine for others from whom you will not be able to shield from your understanding. Be gentle.
Father, increase our understanding of You for Your benefit and ours. May our understanding of Your will cause great blessing for You, ourselves, and those around us. Increase Your kingdom. Lord Jesus, return quickly. In Jesus’ name, amen.
We Need A Miracle 