The Christian’s desire is to please God in thought, word and deed.  He may at times be discouraged, even disgusted, with his attempts, but he rejoices in the great truth from the pen of the psalmist, “For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, And abundant in mercy to all those who call upon You” (Psalm 86:5).  God’s mercy is abundantly available to His children.  What an encouraging truth!

There is a truth in Colossians 1:9-14 that is equally compelling.  One discovers in verse 10 that it is possible for Christians to live their lives in a way that is worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him!  In verses 10-12, we are told how that is possible.  We can fully please God by being fruitful in every good work, by increasing in the knowledge of God, by being strengthened with God’s might, and by giving thanks to God.  We must remember that Paul is praying that the Colossians would experience these things.  So if we are to fully please God, He must be at work in our lives!  It is His will to work, but it is also His will that we pray that these four things be our experience!  May we be consistent in our prayers for each other and ourselves.  As we are, we will see God work!!