What is “Praying Without Ceasing”
Devoted Prayer to God
A Christian image of praying without ceasing is a picture of what’s in that person’s mind at the time. 1st Thessalonians Ch.5 states we should pray without ceasing. Now how do you suppose we accomplish this? The unbeliever brings mental images of people standing in a trance or in an elaborate church setting resting on their knees with their hands clasped 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To the faithful, it’s about the heart of a person’s walk with God rather than unrealistic actions or works.
An “On Call” God
Some people only pray when they have a problem that is difficult to solve. These individuals rely on their personal understanding and abilities and don’t turn to God until all worldly options have been explored. They don’t put God first.
An “Unbelieving” God
Some people don’t pray at all. Prayer is a foreign concept to them; talking to an entity they can’t see is a concept they will not accept and brings fear to their heart. “Oh my! These Christians may be right!” or “Okay? I think that person forgot his medication today.” In either case, these folks are blinded to the truth of God. These people deny God at all costs.
An “Unceasing” God
The heart of a consistent prayerful believer gives God and Jesus credit and gratitude for everything every day. You see, it’s a state of mind. Like anybody else, I get up in the morning and go through my morning “startup” routine. I make my coffee, I open my tablet, and continue with my Bible reading. I spend about 15 to 30 minutes each day. After I read, I pray to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ about what I have read and other things on my mind. This routine sets up a mindset of Godly service, which reminds me of His omnipotence and His love.
Your “Journey” with God
Throughout the day, I do my very best (with the help of the Holy Spirit) to stay in a reverent, prayerful state of mind. The best way to explain this is the sound of an engine steadily purring along the interstate highway as we head to our destination of salvation. Not an 800 horsepower nitrous fed big-block Chevy that travels the ¼ mile drag strip in 7 seconds or less accompanied by a few seconds of extremely loud noise followed by a few seconds of joy realizing you won the “short” track. This is a lesson on consistent endurance. This is not a sprinters’ race. Praying without ceasing is a spiritual journey.
A “Grateful” God
We need to pray for everything in our lives. I give thanks for the new day, I ask how can I be a better servant for His will, I ask for protection against evil and the darts Satan throws at me (and believe me, He does throw them), I give thanks for the deer ( an 8 point buck ) I missed on my way into work that day. I thank Him for the rain; I thank Him for the sunshine, I thank Him for my wife and children and ask for His hand in their guidance, health, and safety. I thank Him for my job. Do you get my point here?
Gratitude in prayer shows a respectful repentant heart. Consistent prayer is a frame of mind, not just an activity you perform on Sunday.
A “Trusting” God
Do not be afraid to ask for things you want. If the prayer is in God’s will for you, it will be granted. There may be some things on you’re wish list that God says “no” or “wait,” believe me, I know this is difficult, but please trust Him. Sometimes we must thank Him in prayer about things He denies us as well as the things He gives us. Prayer and gratitude in all things will build trust.
We must also trust in our Lord and Savior that He is in control of our nation and who He chooses to lead us. Remember, He’s got this. Be thankful, God is in charge. In the end, it is Jesus we must answer for what we have done. Pray for our leaders. Believe me, they require divine leadership and guidance.
Prayer builds a strong relationship with Jesus. He really does enjoy your company. He made you for fellowship with Him. He made you for service to God. He wants to spend time with you. All friendships start with time. Please choose to spend time with Him by reading His word and create a prayerful conversation over a cup of joe.
This conversation should go on throughout your day, Praying without ceasing keeps God at the forefront of your thoughts. Ceaselessly does not mean wasting your day but leading your day for Him. Remember, Jesus, who devotes His time keeping me safe deserves my time and should receive a heartfelt “Thank You.” Jesus gave His life for you and me. Please talk with Him and find out how much He loves you.