Note 24 at Col. 2:7: Paul is likening our growth in the Lord to a tree. The seed being planted is just the first step. Much growth has to take place before the tree is firmly established and able to withstand the elements. Likewise, a Christian who just believes and doesn't grow is in a vulnerable position. That's the way Paul had felt about these Colossians and he was writing to help them grow to the point that their faith would be sure.

Note 25 at Col. 2:7: What we abound in when we operate in thanksgiving is faith. Faith is never complete until there is thanksgiving. If you believed for a million dollars and you received your answer, what would your response be? It would be some form of thanksgiving. It is impossible to see the answer to your prayers without some praise to God coming out. That's because our thanksgiving is a vital part of faith and faith isn't complete without it.

Therefore, faith without praise is incomplete. Those who try to believe God and are void of praise and thanksgiving prior to the time they see what they have believed for are operating in an inferior faith. As we thank the Lord in advance by faith, our faith abounds and reaches its highest level.