Prepared by William Earnhardt for Sabbath School Class, Sabbath, 10 January 2026.

Central Theme: This week, we’ll consider Paul’s opening words of thanksgiving and prayer in Philippians and Colossians, which may enrich and strengthen our own prayer life.

Read in Class: Philippians 1:3-8. Ask the class to summarize this passage.

Study: What is Paul thankful for? What reassurances does he give the Philippians, and why is that important?

Apply: How do you understand the promise that God will finish the “good work in you” (Phil. 1:6)? What does that mean? Will this work ever end before the Second Coming?

Share: Who are some people in your life that you thank God for, and why?

Read in Class: Philippians 1:9-11. Ask the class to identify the main idea of this passage.

Study: What is the focus of Paul’s prayer, and what big requests does he make? What does it tell you about prayer?

Apply: Whatever else we do, how can our love “abound still more and more” (Phil. 1:9, NKJV)? Why is that so important for the Christian life? (See also 1 Cor. 13:1-8.)

Share: Your friend says that she tries to be sincere and not offend others, but the people she works with are too sensitive and easily offended. What do you tell your friend?

Read in Class: Philippians 1:12-18. Ask the class to summarize this passage.

Study: How did Paul view his imprisonment? What lessons can we learn from his attitude, despite the circumstances he found himself in?

Apply: What lesson have you learned from experiences that, though unquestionably bad, also brought about some benefits? Even in cases in which a benefit might not be apparent, how can we learn to trust God regardless?

Share: Your friend asks, “What selfish motivations could possibly drive someone to share the gospel, and how should we respond to them?” What do you tell your friend?

Read in Class: Colossians 1:3-12. Ask the class to summarize this passage.

Study: What three things does Paul thank God for? What specific requests do you find in Paul’s prayer?

Apply: In Colossians 1:5, Paul writes about “the hope which is laid up for you in heaven.” What is your understanding of that hope, and why does it apply to you personally, even though you are truly unworthy?

Share: If someone were to ask you, “How do you know that God is leading you in one direction or another?” how would you answer–and why?

Mission: Can you reach out to someone this week who is going through a tough time and offer encouragement?