Active Theology

“Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving”, (Colossians 4:2, ESV)

What is something you do over and over? Better yet, what is something you do continually and never grow tired of? For me, I love making and drinking coffee. And it’s not just the drink itself, but it’s the process too. I’m somewhat of a “coffee snob”. By that, I mean I’m particular, but not picky. I love my single-origin pour overs, but I’ll gladly drink a Keurig coffee. 

As I mentioned, I love the process. The steps and details are too long to write out here, but it does take me about 10 minutes… and yes, I grind my beans by hand. Even after going through this process every day for almost 10 years, l have yet to grow tired of it. 

When I read Paul’s letters, I am frequently in awe of how he prayed and how he described his prayer life. Based on the way he talked about it, Paul seems to have never stopped praying.

To “continue steadfastly” with something means to be persistent. You could even think of it as “never ending”. If we approach prayer like this, then we are going to be in constant communication with God. 

Whether you feel like you’re in a valley or on a mountaintop. Continue steadfastly in prayer.

Your upcoming week could be loaded with stressful deadlines or you might have some days off. Continue steadfastly in prayer. 

Maybe you feel stuck, confused, and left wondering when God is going to open a door. Continue steadfastly in prayer. 

You might look at the news and what’s happening around you and wonder what is going on. Continue steadfastly in prayer.

If we follow Paul’s instructions, one of the best things we can do at the beginning of the week is pray. And keep praying. God is eager to hear from you. You can bring everything to Him. When you pray, you aren’t just speaking to the air. You are holding a conversation with the Creator. You are communicating with the One who is living, active, and constantly involved with your life. 

And as Paul says in this verse, we are to be watchful at the same time. Be watchful for how God is working. Our hearts will be turned to thanksgiving and praise as we stay connected to God through prayer!

Pray: God, thank You for hearing my prayers. Help me to remember that I can always come to You in prayer. Through every up and down, You are there waiting to hear from me. You are a compassionate God that wants to hear from His children. I pray that I will see how You are working in my life this week and turn my heart to praise You, and You alone, each day.

Song: “Oh God” by Citizens

Craig is a worship pastor at Wallula Christian Church and the creator of Active Theology. He loves coffee dates with his wife, reading, and riding his bike. A few of his favorite things are third wave coffee, vanilla ice cream, and plain t-shirts.