In my small group (aka Sunday School) yesterday, we were reading out of Colossians 4. I enjoyed it so much that I want to get a little deeper into it today with you.
Colossians 4:2 says, "Devote yourselves to prayer; stay alert in it with thanksgiving," HCSB. My NIV says, "Devote yourselves to prayer BEING WATCHFUL and thankful." I like both of these versions; both are saying the same thing, but hearing them separately puts a little more emphasis on the chosen words, "alert" and "watchful." For one thing, we need to be looking out and noticing all of our blessings and being thankful for them. Once you start to see those blessings, you are able to realize how much God has done for you; you are able to be grateful in the things you DON'T have. Also we are to be devoting ourselves to prayer. How many times throughout the day do you go without setting a time-out for God? Now I believe what is also being said here is to be alert and in prayer all day long with Thanksgiving to God. That's what this passage is saying, to constantly be talking to God throughout the day. But I believe it is also telling us to devote a prayer time; devote a time set aside for just you and God. A time where maybe you don't say a thing. Perhaps you just listen. Sit. Wait. Simmer down, now. You get me?
Prayer isn't all about just asking. Last night, we had a couple of kids at church pray at our table, and it was precious. We all want to have that childlike faith. On the other hand, it kind of sounded like they were talking to Santa Claus. Just asking for pointless things, which to them, seemed really necessary and important. But in reality, I'm pretty sure a 4-year old doesn't need her own castle. Do you? I wonder if we sound like that to God? Are we just asking for things in which, to us, seem necessary and important, but to Him are pointless? Why not have a conversation, which is two-sided, might I add. Do you go to your best friend and ask ask ask, and then walk away? Um, no... So why do we do that with God so often? You know, a lot of times, aren't you just the person who doesn't really even say a word, but just provide an attentive ear? Hmmm... Now we're getting somewhere.
Hey guys, I'm just planting a little seed. Maybe think about that today while you're talking to Santa... I mean, Jesus.
Jeremiah 29:11,
Tara K
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