Colossians 4:2-4 Prayer

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. (Colossians 4:2-4 NIV)

Observation:

The word devoted means to set apart time to focus, keeping something always at the forefront of your thoughts. Paul is saying that Christians need to lay hold of opportunity for prayer, keeping their minds alert and ready. Watchful is that alertness. Peter uses the same term when talking about fighting our enemy, He say's be alert of sober mind (1 Peter 5:8). Paul describes prayer as part of our armor in Ephesians 6; Paul says to pray at all times, being alert to pray for God's people (Ephesians 6:18).  Paul is saying the same thing here when he asks to be prayed for. Chief speakers need prayer, that God would both give them opportunity and the words to speak.

Like with many prayers mentioned in the bible, we are to lace our conversations with thankfulness; thankful for who God is and what He has done.

Application:

Two words cut straight to the heart, devoted and watchful. I pray all the time, for conversations that I'm in, for decisions I need to make, etc. But I've always been a little envious of those who can set aside an hour each day on their knees and focus in specifically on prayer. I've done pretty good at the keeping the conversation going with God throughout the day, but I've missed something when it comes to developing the discipline in getting alone, in a quiet place, and just praying. It is in this lack of discipline that I very often forget to pray for people. If my only prayer life is a constant conversation throughout the day, but not quality time set aside for just prayer, than my prayer life can easily become fast food for the soul instead of the complete nourishment God longs to give me.

When I sent aside time to pray, my mind wanders, it seems as if I can only stay focused for small bursts at a time. Is there anything wrong with this? No. However, is my prayer life living up to its full potential? No. And I want that to change.

Prayer:

Father, I want more quality time with You. I want that devoted time, set apart strictly for You. Please help me to pray for others and keep my mind directed towards You. Thank You that You are always bringing out more and more in me. I want to go deeper in You.