Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.
As Paul concluded his letter to the Colossians, he encouraged them to continue steadfastly in prayer. To make prayer a regular part of their daily lives. As he says elsewhere, to pray without ceasing (1 Th. 5:17).
He went on to tell them to be watchful in their prayer. He was not telling them to physically keep their eyes open and look around while they pray. Rather, he was encouraging them to be informed in their prayer.
Be aware of what is happening around you, especially the needs of your fellow believers, the church you serve, and the world at large. Rather than just praying in generalities, be more specific, pray for individual needs and concerns. Pray for what you know each person needs, both physically and spiritually.
And do this with thanksgiving. We do not have to wait until our prayer is answered before giving thanks. We can give thanks even as we pray. Because we pray to a God for whom nothing is impossible, who loves us dearly, and who has assured us that he will hear and respond to our prayers.
Be steadfast in your prayer, never giving up. Be watchful in your prayer, seeing the real needs that people have. And be thankful in your prayer, expecting God to answer you.Practice watchful prayer with thanksgiving.
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