+I. For spiritual strength.+--It was not bodily strength, civil
power, or worldly distinction; it was the grace of fortitude and
patience.
+II. For an indwelling Christ.+--As we become united to Christ by
faith, so by faith He dwells in our hearts.
+III. For establishment in love.+--True love is rooted in the heart.
It is a spiritual affection towards Christ. Its fruits are love to
men, imitation of Christ's example, obedience to His commands, zeal
for His honour, and diligence in His service.
+IV. For increase of knowledge in the love of Christ.+--The love of
Christ passeth all known examples of love. This love passeth our
comprehension in respect of its breadth or extent, its length, its
depth, as the benefits it has procured exceed all human estimate.
Though the love of Christ passeth knowledge, there is a sense in
which it is known to the saints. They have an experimental knowledge,
an influential knowledge, an assimilating knowledge of the love of
Christ.
+V. For the fulness of God.+--That they may have such a supply of
Divine influence as would cause them to abound in knowledge, faith,
love, and all virtues and good works.--_Lathrop._