The Revealed Knowledge of God

[...] we haven’t stopped praying for you. We are asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding.

Colossians 1:9 (HCSB)

In this verse, Paul emphasizes the vital importance for the Colossians of knowing God's will. Thus, in his prayer, although he could have prayed for the material needs of these Christians, he clearly states that he is constantly praying for them, with one goal in mind: that they be filled with the knowledge of God's will. This knowledge, God reveals to us through His Word. This is what we call the revealed knowledge of God. It can be said that the only way to receive the revealed knowledge of God is to first know His Word written in the Bible.

Paul's prayer to God on behalf of the Colossians is not a one-off prayer, but a continuous one. He never stops praying. This means that Paul has made it his mission to intercede with God on behalf of the Colossians until God reveals His will to them.

Furthermore, he does not simply pray that they may know God's will, but that they may fully possess it, with wisdom and discernment. With wisdom, that is, knowing when and how to apply this divine revelation to their lives. With spiritual understanding, that is, a solid knowledge of the Word. Wisdom is inseparable from understanding, and understanding from wisdom. It is their combination that produces the discernment that the Holy Spirit grants to believers.

If you desire to live in a manner worthy of God, you must study His Word. By studying it, He will reveal His will to you. Knowing His will will enable you to fully submit to the work of the Holy Spirit in your life, who, through the knowledge revealed to you, will guide you in your walk with Christ.

May the grace and peace of God be with you all.