Jul 14, 2019
Scripture Reading: Colossians 4:2-4
This passage is an unusually strong exhortation for us to pray. Paul does not simply say that we should pray, but uses two qualifying words to stress that we should engage regularly and passionately in this blessed practice.
The first word, translated in the ESV by the words "continue steadfastly," indicates repetition. This does not mean we pray continually (which is impossible to do), but that we pray repeatedly. Just as there are activities that we do every day … eating, working, talking, sleeping … we should also pray every day.
The word is found in several New Testament passages referring to our continuing in prayer … Acts 1:14; 2:42; 6:4; Rom 12:12. It should be an encouragement to us that Daniel made it a practice of praying three times every day. It should shame us to think that dutiful Muslims pray five times every day.
The second word in this text, translated in the ESV by the words "being watchful," indicates something of the ardor necessary for prayer. We must be devoted to prayer with a longing heart. The issues of life are serious and call for earnestness in our prayers. "Dead and sleepy prayers, which are uttered with a mind either wandering or benumbed, neither reach heaven, nor can move God to hear" (Davenant, Colossians, 2:225).