Developing a Passion for Prayer
Scripture Reading — Colossians 1:3-14
We have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will.
Earlier this month, as we reflected on the prayer life of Jesus, we noted how often he engaged in prayer. The Lord’s passion for prayer is something he wants us to have as well. In one of his parables Jesus taught that we “should always pray and not give up” (see Luke 18:1).
Prayer was obviously a high priority for the apostle Paul, who wrote the letter to the Colossians. Some of the most beautiful prayers ever written are found in his letters. Paul’s prayers are magnificent, not only because of their content but also because he was so diligent in prayer. He prayed “continually” for others and always thanked God for them.
Perhaps this leads you to consider how important prayer is in your life. Sometimes we think prayer is a gift that some believers have more than others. Sometimes people who become known for having a passion for prayer are even called “prayer warriors.”
It’s true that some people are simply more interested in prayer than others. But God wants prayer to be a top priority in everyone’s life. God wants us to experience prayer as a delight, not a duty.
Perhaps one of the things we should pray about most is prayer itself. If you ask God to help make prayer more of a priority in your life, how do you think he will respond? Of course he will say yes!
Lord, I know that prayer is always a blessing, but it’s easy for me to neglect it. Please increase my desire and my opportunities to spend time with you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
About the author — Peter Hoytema
Peter Hoytema has been a pastor for nearly 30 years and has served congregations in Ontario and New Jersey. He is currently the pastor of a congregation in Strathroy, Ontario. He is a graduate of Calvin Theological Seminary and San Francisco Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Grace, are the parents of four adult children.
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