No. 329 - Devoted in Prayer

The Prayer of God’s People

Devoted in Prayer

Colossians 4:2

"Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving."

Starting Prayer 

Heavenly Father, help me to be devoted in my prayers today and always. Open my heart to understand Your Word and apply it in my life. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Background 

The book of Colossians was written by the Apostle Paul to the believers in Colossae. In Chapter 4, Paul encourages the church to be devoted to prayer and to stay alert with a thankful heart. The verse we are focusing on today, Colossians 4:2, calls us to be earnest and watchful in our prayers, ensuring that thanksgiving is always present in our communication with God.

Be Encouraged 

Being devoted in prayer means making it a priority in our daily lives. Just as we commit time to work, family, and other responsibilities, we should also commit time to talk with God. Prayer is not just about asking for what we need; it is about building a relationship with God, thanking Him for His blessings, and seeking His guidance in all we do. When we are vigilant in prayer, we stay connected to God and are more aware of His presence in our lives. 

Paul also instructs us to include thanksgiving in our prayers. When we are thankful, we shift our focus from our problems to God's goodness. This doesn't mean we ignore our struggles, but we acknowledge that God is in control and trust Him to provide for us. A heart filled with gratitude will naturally lead to a stronger faith and a deeper relationship with God. 

Application 

Reflect on these verses to enrich today's message:

- 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18 "Pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." 

- Philippians 4:6 "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God." 

Invitation 

If you have not yet committed your life to Christ, I encourage you to visit a nearby Church of Christ. Through faith (Hebrews 11:6), repentance from sin (Acts 2:38; 17:30-31), and baptism for the forgiveness of all past sins and your salvation (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38), the Lord will add you to His church. Here, you will continue to learn more about God and put into practice Christ's commandments (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 2:47). Take this opportunity to make a change in your life, starting with today’s message. Share this encouragement with your loved ones, and let’s grow together in faith and devotion to God. 

Concluding Prayer

Thank You, Lord, for the reminder to be devoted and thankful in prayer. Help me to make prayer a priority and to always come to You with a heart full of gratitude. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

May the Lord bless your day.


Theodore J. Quist 

Evangelist 

Church of Christ 

Abokobi - Accra 

Ghana

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