“Continue earnestly in prayer” (Colossians 4:2)

The Bible is full of prayers. Prayers that remember God’s laws and promises, appeal for mercy and grace, and remind individuals and cities and nations of the sovereignty of God to build up or tear down. From the beginning, "men began to call upon the name of the LORD” (Genesis 4:26), until the end, “come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20), the Bible is full of prayers. 

 Jacob prayed while he wrestled, Daniel knowing it was a capital offence, and David when his life was in constant peril. On the mountain we see Elijah; in the dungeon Paul and Silas; at the altar Hannah. Prayer is how we meet God’s requirements and receive His promises. If we are to obey God and receive His blessings we must pray. God has made prayer necessary so we would call upon Him. 

 There’s no saint so holy that he doesn’t need to pray. If you don’t know this, you’re in danger. God says your comfort is only temporary. “Because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth” (Revelation 3:16). Is everything in your life according to His will? Of course not! A prayerless soul is “wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked” (Revelation 3:17). “Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord” (Acts 3:19). 

Prayer is the simple request of the believing child, the shout of the fighting believer, the final request of the dying saint falling asleep in Jesus. It is the breath, the watchword, the comfort, the strength, the honor of every Christian. If you’re a child of God, you’ll seek your Father's face, and live in His love. Pray that this year you’ll be holy, humble, zealous, and patient; have closer communion with Christ, and enter often into the banqueting-house of His love. Pray that you’ll be an example and blessing to others, and live for the glory of God. This year, "continue earnestly in prayer."