“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.”
Colossians 4:2 (NIV)
Devotion is a word we throw around a lot. It gets watered down like love. But devotion requires sacrifice. If we are devoted to one thing, then there is a long list of other things we are saying NO to. Devotion also requires focus.
Paul encourages us to be devoted to prayer. This is how we stay connected to the God of the universe. He WANTS to talk with you. 1 Peter 5:7 mirrors this truth—we give our worries to God by praying. This allows Him to enter the situation and care for us. When we don’t pray, we end up carrying burdens alone. And they often crush us.
Paul highlights two keys to prayer: being watchful and thankful. 1 Peter 5:8 shows us who to watch for—the enemy, who prowls around seeking to destroy. If we watch for the devil’s hand, then we know what to pray for.
Philippians 4:6 adds clarity to thankfulness. When we ask God for anything, our hearts should come with gratitude for all He has already done. When our lips declare what God did in the past, our faith is revealed for what He can do today. God hasn’t forgotten—thankfulness reminds us.