Praying! (part 2 of 7)

Yesterday we noted the statement, "Seven days without prayer makes one weak", and focused on Paul's urging toward steadfastness in prayer. Let us note Paul's further focus on prayer in that Colossian text.

Paul urged. . .
"(2) Continue steadfastly IN PRAYER, BEING WATCHFUL IN IT with thanksgiving. (3) At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison -- (4) that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak." ( Colossians 4:2-4 ESV)

Though we should grow to develop a sense of calming peace in placing our complete trust in God, that still does not mean we throw caution to the wind. Our daily prayers are to be accompanied by a sense of WATCHFULNESS. Prayer and WATCHFULNESS go hand-in-hand. Even Jesus coupled prayer and WATCHFULNESS together with His disciples. (note Mark 14:38) However, WATCHFUL in what sense? Perhaps there are several ways in which WATCHFULNESS ought to accompany our prayers.

First of all, as we pray to Almighty God, we should still live aware and alert to the reality there are other powers at work in this world. Though these are lesser powers than the power of God, they can mislead or trip us up if we are not WATCHFUL. Being aware that the devil is also at work ( 1 Peter 5:8) in this realm keeps us on the lookout so that we are not easily deceived.

Secondly, we should be WATCHFUL for the things of life that merit our focus in prayer. When we tell someone we will be praying for them, let us be sure to do it. Even better, offer to pray with them right then and there.

Thirdly, let us be WATCHFUL with regard to how, what, and why we are asking. (note James 4:2-3) Prayer is not to be merely some ritual we go through. Neither is it the use of "magic words" that get what we want. It is communication with a loving Father already aware of what our needs are. There needs to be a heart connection in our prayers with God that takes our motivation for the asking into consideration.

Fourthly, being WATCHFUL in prayer can take the form of praying in faith and then EXPECTANTLY LOOKING for how God will work out the answer in accord with His Will. That WATCHFULNESS may even be for opportunities for our own action being linked to God working out the answer.

"WATCH and pray!" ( Mark 14:38) WATCHFULNESS and prayer go together. They are our need. They produce a blessing. May we keep them coupled together as our trust in the Heavenly Father grows greater and greater.

Have a great day LOOKING OUT AS WE KEEP LOOKING UP!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Prayer