On Prayer

Thessalonians 5:16-18

 ¹⁶Rejoice evermore.

 ¹⁷Pray without ceasing.

 ¹⁸In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Most people of faith can affirm that prayer is important. But how does one pray without ceasing? Does this mean that we must go into the prayer room and stay? That we must not venture out?

Going into the prayer room, or prayer closet, as Jesus called it, is very important. We need that time. We must set aside time every day for what our Christian forebears described as 'prayer and meditation.'

But it goes beyond that. We can develop a spirit of prayer that stays with us. We can offer mini-prayers throughout the day while driving, working, shopping, or whatever we do. One theologian described these as 'quickie prayers.'

The benefits of developing this kind of lifestyle are innumerable. We develop a calm inner core that sustains us through all of life's storms. We develop an intimate relationship with God. We know that we can approach Him with any need and that He hears and understands.

Prayer: "O God, teach us to pray. Show us the way to personal growth and internal calm. Give us strength to forge a new depth in our relationship with You. And we pray in faith, believing You will answer. In Jesus' name, Amen." 

Song: This one is a lot of fun, but the message is timeless and good. This is a vintage clip of the Dixie Echoes and the late Dale Shelnut singing on the Gospel Singing Jubilee. You will see at the end that Dale could not be controlled as he sings another chorus, much to the chagrin of producer Les Beasley.  The song is entitled, 'Come Into the Prayer Room.'