Devoted Prayer – Jennifer Woodley
‘Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with thanksgiving.’ Colossians 4:2 (NRSV)
When it comes to prayer, our call is twofold: to pray that the love of Christ fills the hearts of His people, and for the power of the Spirit to accomplish God’s work in this sin-filled world. Prayer of this nature begins with our own household, but just as a pebble dropped in a pool of water emits widening ripples, so too do our prayers grow to touch and influence many.
Pray for our own family and the believers we know. Pray for our local community, region and country. For all the Christian nations of the world, and the believers to be found in each of these. Think of the unsaved nations and the children of God therein. As we do, our prayers will expand to cover all of humankind. Let our devoted prayers plead for the Holy Spirit to move mightily and the love and oneness that is found in Christ fill all people.
But prayer for all people, in all places, in all circumstances and conditions, is not the work of one day or night. It is ongoing. Unceasing. Nor can it be done in our strength. We must seek God’s grace and help. We need His desire for devoted prayer. Prayer is not an elective in our lives. It functions to keep us before God in a disciplined and attentive way. And like a mighty avalanche, devoted prayer gathers force and impact as God’s people unite together and pray believing prayers.
‘Father, fill us with a greater desire to pray for your Kingdom to come and a deeper love for others that moves us to pray for them.’
Jennifer is an Australian writer who enjoys encouraging others on their journey with Jesus. Contact
