Devote yourselves to prayer; stay alert in it with thanksgiving. Colossians 4:2
The phrase “devote yourselves” means “continue steadily” or “persevere,” implying strong determination and passion for prayer. The phrase “being watchful” means “being spiritually awake or alert.” In order to devote ourselves to serious prayer, we must be alert to the many things that would distract us from this purpose. Satan, the pleasures and concerns of the world and the weakness of our own human nature are all sources of things that can often distract as we attempt to pray. We must discipline ourselves to develop the kind of prayer of life necessary for spiritually maturity and consistent Christian victory.
Prayer was at the heart of the life of the New Testament church: “They devoted themselves…to prayer” (Acts 2:42). This passionate devotion to prayer must be based on love and gratitude to Christ for what he has done for us.
Today’s Bible Readings:
Numbers 2-3, Mark 11:27-12:17, Psalm 47:1-9 and Proverbs 10:24-25