Let us take a look at two sets of scripture, Colossians 1:3-14 and Psalms 141, 142, and 143, and look at the message God, via the inspired writers, is giving us concerning the need for spiritual strength. If we were to summarize this in one statement it would be; we need spiritual strength, not only to grow in understanding of His will, but to follow it despite the influence of the world.
In Paul’s letter to the Colossians he begins by stating in verse 3, of chapter 1, how thankful to God he is that they have obeyed Christ finding “the hope laid up for you in heaven” (vs 5, ESV). But it doesn’t stop there, he goes on in verse 9 & 10 saying that they have not ceased to pray for them (the Colossians) that they “may be filled the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding so that you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord” (ESV). Through spiritual wisdom we gain the strength to be obedient to God’s will. Paul points out the importance that, although we have hope through the gospel, knowledge and understanding of God’s will AND the willingness to obey His will is key to the salvation that Paul gives thanks for in verses 12 through 14.
Looking at three of the Psalms of David, 141-a prayer for protection, 142-a prayer for help in troubled times, and 143-a prayer for deliverance and guidance, in each David is feeling the affliction of the world and of his enemies and turns his troubled heart to God for strength and help. In 141:8, 142:5, and 143:9, David takes refuge in the Lord because he does not have the strength to defend himself “For they are too strong for me” (142:6, ESV). Looking at verses 143:8-11, he asks God to “Teach me the way which I should walk” (vs. 8, ESV) because by being in God’s righteousness will bring his soul out of trouble (vs. 11). David knows that by understanding God’s will and following in His will he, David, will receive the strength needed to not let his enemies defeat him.
In 141:10 David asks, “Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I pass safely by” (ESV). I ask the same for each of us. May God give us spiritual strength that we may grow in the understanding of his righteous will and the willingness to obey Him.