Continual Prayer Keeps Us Vigilant

Posted on by Chris G Thelen

It hit me the other night that darkness in this world is not static, that evil is continually on the move. That means our prayers are not a one-time event; our prayers must be constant, continually praying for the Spirit of God to drive out the darkness with His light. We must remember that if we are not vigilant in our prayers, darkness can get a toehold in our lives and the church.

I think this is what Paul is telling the church in 1 Thessalonians 5:12-20. Paul writes in verse 16-18, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances.” This reminds us that if we lose our focus on Christ Jesus and start grumbling about our circumstances, we leave a door open for darkness to move into our lives and the church. In verses 12-15 he cautions the church to guard against things that cause division. He urges the church to “live in peace with each other” and to “be patient with everyone.”

Continual prayer helps us to focus on Jesus Christ and the blessings he gives us. Prayer helps us to turn someone’s offense into an avenue of reconciliation. Prayer helps us to stop divisive actions and gives us the courage to pursue peace-making. Continual prayer, particularly as a body of believers, helps to stop darkness from seeping into our lives and the church. That is why Paul tells the church in verses 21-22 to “hold on to what is good, reject every kind of evil.” Our prayers help us to tap into the power of the Spirit of God so that the light continues to advance over darkness.

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. – John 1:5

© 2017 CGThelen

#ThrowbackThursday — This post originally published November 18, 2017.

13 thoughts on “Continual Prayer Keeps Us Vigilant”

  1. Pingback: VIDEO Continual Prayer Keeps Us Vigilant – Seven Basic Conditions for Answered Prayer – StopAndPrayTV

  3. I really enjoyed reading this post. It confirmed for me something god had showed me in Ephesians a few years back. We must put on our armor daily. Why? It is not a fashion statement, it has purpose. We are soldiers in a war in which we face battles daily, and prayer is definitely a weapon we should keep sharpened and used daily. wonderful post.

    1. Like that point — “It is not a fashion statement, it has purpose.” We must be equipped for daily battles. Thanks for the comment. Blessings.

  5. Pingback: Continual Prayer Keeps Us Vigilant — 140 Character Christian – quietmomentswithgod

  6. Thanks for that reminder of not grumbling. It’s ok to express concern but fretting and grumbling can take our focus off of God.

  7. Thanks for this important reminder of the necessity of continual prayer. Keep up the good work. JD

  8. Thank you for choosing to spend time reading my blog and following it. After reading yours, I believe we are moving in the same direction. God bless you as you continue to serve Him. I look forward to seeing more of your work.

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