Paul's Prayers - A Great Example to Follow

I've always been fascinated by the apostle Paul's prayers that he shared in his letters, especially as they reveal so much about the sovereignty of God. I ran across one such prayer this morning in Colossians during my daily Bible reading. As I read the prayer it ocurred to me that what Paul was asking from God on behalf of the believers in Colosse is exactly what I would ask God to grant to me and to my brothers and sisters in Christ. That is, the prayers of Paul are not only of great theological benefit, but also practical, as an example to follow when praying for others and for ourselves.

(Col 1:9) And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,
(Col 1:10) so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.
(Col 1:11) May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy,
(Col 1:12) giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.