Have you ever prayed and fell asleep? Have you done it once, or twice maybe? Certainly there is a time and a place for prayers before bedtime. But Colossians 4 knows nothing about a sleepy prayer. Colossians 4:2 says “continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.” The greek word for “continue” stems from the root meaning “to be strong.” It implies persistence and fervor. Prayers that are persistent and that have fervor may not be easy to do. Our mind is weak and we often fall asleep or forget to pray for other believers. Nonetheless, Paul is asking us to continue earnest and persistent prayers. Prayers for our brothers and sisters, giving thanks for everything that God has done, and prayers for the advancement of the Gospel. Christians should be praying for each other in this way. While part of living out our faith is living through prayer, another part is to live it out publicly through our speech and actions. Our faith is personal, but it is never private. In Colossians 4:5-6, Paul is encouraging us to walk in wisdom letting our speech be full of grace, with the ultimate goal of nonbelievers coming to a saving faith in Jesus Christ. Paul ends the letter with personal notes to other partners in ministry. These letters are a testament to the close unity and community that is found amongst believers – especially believers who are praying earnestly for one another.
Blessings
VC Devotionals 