Colossians 1:9

For this cause. That is, in view of what has been said in vs. 4-8. Paul has recalled the faith of the Colossian believers in Christ, the genuineness of their love for the brethren, and their sustained hope in the heavenly reward. All of these things have gladdened his heart. The immediate cause of his rejoicing is the good word that Epaphras has brought from Colossae. His glowing report has warmed the heart of the aged Paul.

The day we heard. The arrival of Epaphras was a memorable day for Paul. From it he dates his intensified devotion and gratitude.

Do not cease to pray. Paul has already called attention to his prayers for the Colossian believers (see v. 3). The story from Colossae that Epaphras has brought him enables him now to pray with added meaning and joy. The phrase “do not cease to pray” means that Paul habitually prayed for the Colossian Christians. At no time could it be said that he had ceased to pray for them.

To desire. Paul was thankful, but at the same time solicitous. Not satisfied with the progress the Colossian believers had already gained, he yearned that further advancement might be made.

Knowledge. Gr. epignosis, “full, precise knowledge” (see on Rom. 3:20; Eph. 1:17; cf. on Col. 1:6).

His will. Specifically a knowledge of God’s will concerning their conduct (see v. 10), more generally an understanding of the sum total of God’s all-embracing purpose. To the one who possesses such knowledge, each detail of life, with its problems and inexplicable mysteries, takes on new meaning. The Christian realizes that God has a plan for his life, and his aim is to fulfill the divine purpose.

Wisdom. Gr. sophia. See on Luke 2:52. Wisdom is the ability to apply the facts of knowledge to the situations of life. Unfortunately, it does not always follow that the one who has knowledge also possesses wisdom. For this reason Paul prays that the believers at Colossae might be endued with Heaven’s wisdom.

Spiritual. The adjective applies to the preceding noun, “wisdom,” as well as to “understanding.”

Understanding. The understanding given by the Spirit is that discernment which enables a Christian to judge between right and wrong. The temptations and snares of the adversary are recognized by the one enlightened by the Holy Spirit. And, if the entire will is surrendered to God and absorbed in the things of eternal value, the Christian chooses to do only those things that God would have him do.