The Jesus Bible Reading PlanSample
DEVOTED TO PRAYER
Almost every Christian knows that prayer is important. Even many unbelievers think prayer is a good thing. Devoting oneself to prayer, however, is a challenge for many people. Nevertheless, this is exactly what Paul instructed the church at Colossae to do as he concluded his letter. Paul gave an immediate explanation of what he meant by “devote yourselves to prayer,” when he followed up with “being watchful and thankful” (v. 2). Remaining watchful for the “flaming arrows of the evil one” (Eph 6:16) keeps believers in a posture of prayerful dependence upon God.
Paul then directed the church to pray for his proclamation of Jesus. Specifically, he needed opportunities (open doors) and God’s help in making sure he proclaimed the mystery of Jesus with clarity.
Jesus is the very One who makes prayer possible. Jesus paved the way for prayer to be possible by removing the sin barrier between God and humanity through his death, burial and resurrection. The author of Hebrews said it this way: “Since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water” (Heb 10:21 – 22). Jesus makes prayer possible, allowing Christians to draw near to God with the confidence that God will hear and act according to his will.
Jesus, thank you for the gift of prayer. Please help me to give it the proper place of priority in my life. Amen.
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About this Plan
This year-long reading plan features devotionals from The Jesus Bible, which explores how Jesus can be found in both the Old and New Testaments.
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