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Colossians 4:2 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful,
In context, Paul is giving Christians direction on how to develop their character and live out their faith. In this verse, he starts by saying, “Devote yourselves.” This means to adhere firmly to something. This is not a one-time action but rather an ongoing commitment.
Prayer is fundamental to your Christian life. Prayer is like breathing is to your physical life. Make prayer a regular part of your daily life and practice it throughout the day.
To be “watchful” means to be alert and attentive. Be aware of your current circumstances and bring them before God in prayer. Pray for your day, your circumstances, and the people you interact with or who are in your sphere of influence.
Being watchful in prayer also means living with an awareness that Jesus Christ will return. Keep this truth in mind as you go about your day, and live in a way that honors Him as you await His return.
Jesus says to “watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.” Remember that “the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41). Be aware of your own weaknesses and your tendency to give in to sinful desires. Pray to Jesus for strength to resist temptation. Peter also tells us to be alert and sober-minded because our enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8).
Finally, Paul says to be “thankful.” It is easy to get caught up in complaining about what is happening in your life. Take time to recognize God’s grace in your circumstances. Devote yourself to thanking Him for His goodness and faithfulness. Make thanksgiving a discipline in your life. As you turn your attention to God and remember His goodness, you can experience His peace even in difficult circumstances.
Commit to improving your prayer life. Make it your devotion to live a life of prayer that is persistent, watchful, and thankful. ~ Jeff M Newman
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Observe Jesus’ Commands
Watch and pray so that you will not enter into temptation.
Matthew 26:41 “Watch and pray so that you will not enter into temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” (Mark 14:38, Luke 22:46)
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