“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
~ 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
We sometimes feel we have prayed enough or as a matter of fact we simply assume that we have prayed too much. There is actually nothing like “praying too much” as long as we are connected to the Spirit of God. (Ephesians 6:18)
God desires that we be ceaseless when it comes to prayer. Been constant in prayer however has to do with being sensitive to the constant leading and guidance of the Holy Spirit. This points at God not just talking to us but we listening and actively conversing with Him as well. If He is not tired of listening and speaking to us, there is no reason to stop asking, seeking and knocking. (Matthew 7:7)
There is truly no secret to praying without ceasing. The possibility of this instruction to man is the reason why it found its way to the Scriptures anyway, considering that God has no reason to demand from us what is impossible. The truth is there are too many things going on in this world that requires man’s reliance on God for guidance, solution and intervention. If you ever think you have no reason to pray without ceasing, think about these things all around the world : Lack, homelessness, wars, sorrows, drug addiction, immorality, pain, loss, government policies, unemployment, hunger, godlessness, climate change, new beginnings, opportunities, birth of new babies, deaths, joy, abundance, and so on that call for intercession or gratitude and thanksgiving depending on what it is.
“Pray without ceasing” is as simple as it sounds- don’t stop praying. This sounds and looks vague to many and can be perceived as a reason anyone who chooses to carry out this mandate can easily be seen as ridiculous and having a need to “get a life”. The truth however is that the one who truly lives is the one whose heart is set on God continuously. Little wonder those who focus on God experience such peace that is indescribable. ( Isaiah 26:3)
To pray without ceasing is not a religious act that earns you points before men, it is a lifestyle that enables you to see God through every situation, the beauty of nature and the value which healthy relationships add to one’s life. It is to be consciously aware of God’s presence which prompts you to want to spend every moment communing and fellowshiping with Him in worship, praises, adoration, studying, and simply bearing it all before Him.
A heart that prays without ceasing is such whom by the help of the Holy Spirit is conscious of God’s presence even in the midst of its busy, trying, unpalatable, fiery and stormy moments. This heart never gives up on God and prayer. It never packs the bag and leave because what is desired has not manifested. This heart rejoices in the midst of it all, keeps its gaze on God, remains thankful despite all odds and abides in the will of God by depending on Him for all things great and small. This heart understands that man is limited and should humbly submit to the One who is able to satisfy all his needs. (Philippians 4:6)
I once heard that “the only way to learn prayer is to pray”. If your excuse for not praying ceaselessly is that you do not know how possible it is to do so, just keep praying- keep talking to God in praises, worship, wordless groanings, journaling, gratitude and listening to Him as He speaks to you by His Spirit through His Word, circumstances and other believers.
Author Profile
- Temitope is the founder of thesoulmeal.com, an online platform that she shares with her God-given spiritual family and friends. She is a speaker, teacher and youth counselor. She is passionate about inspiring people to find their identity in Christ. Catch her interviewing inspiring leaders on Tongue of the Learned Podcast
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