1/21/25

When you are struggling with things of this world and they are bringing you down, do you pray? I do. I not only pray, I pray with consistency and with fervency. I should pray this way at all times but I find my need increases my cry to the Lord. Just last night I spoke with a loved one who was hurting. I found myself praying continually and fervently for him in faith. People I care about are struggling and I have a friend just waiting to go to be with the Lord in eternity. All of these things increase the frequency, the fervency, and the faith of my prayers. In all actuality, this should be our prayer life no matter the circumstances around us.

Paul tells the church in Colosse to, Colossians 4:2 NASB95 Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving;

We should be devoted to prayer. No matter the circumstances. When things are bad, then pray. When things are good, then pray. When things are happening, then pray. When things are still and sleepy, then pray. When you have loved ones hurting, then pray. When you have loved ones celebrating, then pray. Be devoted to prayer. Make prayer a continual part of your life.

We should also always be alert in our prayers. That means to keep watch. Do not pray as in a daydream. Do not pray in a stylistic manner. Repeating words you have heard in other prayers just because. If you do not mean it don't pray it. Prayer is a conversation, so speak and listen to God just as you would speak and listen to others you have reverence and love for. Prayer should never be something you do mindlessly. It should be done with thought and alertness. When praying, be who you are, with truth, not with hypocrisy.

Lastly, pray with thankfulness! Even in the middle of your struggles remember you are speaking to the creator of all, and He is listening with alertness to you! He doesn't have to; it is not required; God is paying attention to you simply because He cares for you. We should remember this as we boldly approach the Throne of Grace. So pray with an attitude of thankfulness.

Paul tells the Church, do not JUST pray out of need but Instead, "Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving!"

I love it when my children, my loved ones, my friends, and others talk to me earnestly.

So does God!

Love Bro. Scott