Our scripture this morning is Colossians 4:2-6.
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
Paul closes his letter to the Colossians (and us) with guidance to “devote yourselves to prayer”. Prayer is so important to our faith lives, allowing us to share our joys and concerns with God, but also to listen for His voice. Jesus gave us the example of regular prayer, rising early and going to pray (Mark 1:35).
Paul also told us to “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). What would continuous prayer be like? It means that just as God gives us every breath, we should offer every breath as a prayer, being constantly aware of His presence in our lives.
18th century preacher John Wesley said that prayer is “the grand means of drawing near to God”. By this, we consciously choose Him in our lives and share the things that are important or worry us. By giving up our issues to God, we can be relieved of those burdens, knowing He holds all things in His hands.
Heavenly Father, we are thankful for prayer as our means of sharing with You. Hear our prayers for all Your children, that we may follow Christ to the eternal life we have been promised. Amen.
