“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.” Colossians 2:6-7
A life that honors God doesn’t stop the moment we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior. It’s only the beginning of a purposeful life that will last for eternity. We must realize that even if we are now born again and called Christians, our walk continues, and we now have a higher calling that must be fulfilled.
It takes our conscious effort to grow spiritually. We will not be Christlike just by sitting around and waiting for things to happen. It takes time, hard work, and patience to make the daily decision of following Him. Being a follower of Jesus is a lifelong commitment that requires our whole hearts and lives.
Pray to walk in obedience
“Walk in obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess.” Deuteronomy 5:33
The highest form of worship is obedience. You can’t say that you are a follower of God if you don’t obey His commands. Often, this is the hardest thing to do because it usually calls us to sacrifice something that will bring discomfort in our lives. But both obedience and disobedience bring pain and suffering. Their only difference is that disobedience prolongs your distress, can cause you a lifetime of pain, and you may miss out on God’s plans for you.
Heavenly Father, as I live my life for Jesus, please help me to obey all that You have commanded me. Remove my pride that seeks to fulfill my selfish ambitions to live long and prosper in the land you will possess. Please help me walk in obedience as I strive to be more like Christ. I know that it will sometimes cause me pain, but it is always worth it because you will bless me so much more. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pray to be rooted and built up in Jesus
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5
It is not every day that we feel like following Jesus. But for us to overcome life’s trials and temptations, we must be rooted in His love for us. If we understand how wide, long, high and deep His love is, we will realize that we can’t do anything without it. His love will always keep us going.
Lord Jesus, thank You that You love me beyond words. Allow me to experience Your love every minute of my life. When I can’t feel Your presence, remind me that You died for me because You love me. In my brokenness, fill me with Your perfect love because then I know I can overcome anything. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pray to be strengthened in faith
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” Hebrews 11:6
To be strengthened in faith, we must fill our hearts and minds with the Word of God. The Bible is meant to be our daily bread, and not a bread only served on special occasions. It is hard to have confidence and assurance in what we don’t see, but it will be possible and easier when we learn to meditate and obey His Word.
Loving God, I want to know You more. And I know, Your Word will strengthen my faith. Because the more I read Your Word, the more You will reveal Yourself to me. So please help me make time to read and study the Bible. Remove every distraction that will hinder me. When I read Your word, it is then that I will know Your will for me. I pray that You will guide me every step of the way. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pray to be overflowing with thankfulness
“give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18
It is extra challenging to see the good in everything when life is tough. Nevertheless, He is always good. So we must have a grateful heart that knows how to rejoice always and a heart that seeks nothing but His faithfulness. Remember, He is the author of life, so He is always in control.
Loving God, forgive for not being joyful in all ways. But I am reminded today that You hold my life in the palm of Your hands. Thank You that You love me so much, and You only want the best for me. Please help me to trust You and be confident in Your character. I pray that I will have a heart that is grateful for You in every circumstance. I pray to have a life that continuously serves the King of Kings, a life that gives thanks no matter what. In Jesus’ name, amen.