How Did Paul Pray? Colossians 1-2

 Colossians 1:3 (ESV)

We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you,

There is no doubt that Paul had a robust prayer life.  We can read about his prayers in everyone of his letters.   When writing to others he wanted them to know that he was also speaking to God.    He prayed about a lot of things, but we can see much about “how” he prayed in the above short introduction verse to the church at Colossae.  

Note how Paul prayed: 

1. "We" - There is a fellowship in Paul's prayer life. - see Colossians 4:2-3

2. "Always" - There is a consistency to Paul's prayer life and that consistency not only includes "always" praying (Colossians 1:9; Romans 1:9; 2 Timothy 1:3), but "always" giving "thanks" in his prayers.  (The word " always" modifies "Thanks" not "praying")

3. "Thank" - There is a gratitude to Paul's prayer life. (Colossians 1:12; 2:7; 3:17) but "always" giving "thanks" in his prayers.  (The word " always" modifies "Thanks" not "praying")

4.  "God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ" - There is a worship aspect to Paul's prayer life.

5. "Father of" - There is an authoritative aspect to Paul's prayer life. 

6. "when we pray for you" - There is a relationally aspect to Paul's prayer life. (Colossians 2:1)