Ephesians 1:15,16

Reason For Thanksgiving

We have already seen that Paul worked among them and so knew of them firsthand. Perhaps he had not seen any of them since he saw the elders when he called them to Miletus (Acts 20:17 ff). However, he was thankful that he had heard of their faith which was rooted in the Lord, just as it should have been. He had also heard of their love of all the brethren, whether of high or low social standing, rich or poor, etc. (Ephesians 1:15).

Hearing of their faith and love moved Paul to thankful prayer. Notice, he did not cease to pray in their behalf. All Christians should be constantly praying, especially for our brethren (Ephesians 1:16; 1 Thessalonians 5:17). Also, we should remember to be thankful in prayer (1 Peter 4:6-7).