“Followers of Jesus need to commit to times of intentional solitude, with all artificial noises blocked out and adequate time to focus on God scheduled in.”- Jared C. Wilson
“Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.”- Colossians 4:2
Jared Wilson continues Chapter 5 of The Imperfect Disciple as he discusses the proper rhythm of prayer. First, Jared states that two aspects of Colossians 4:2 are crucial to a proper rhythm of prayer:
- continue steadfastly in prayer – this verse speaks to commitment, routine practice, endurance, and even duty
- being watchful in prayer – this speaks to focus, clarity, and awareness
Furthermore, Pastor Wilson states, Jesus’ words and actions reveal that “intentional, attentive, and solitary prayer is vital for a life of submission to the Father’s will.”
However, the author notes, even fifteen minutes out of our day seems too long and unwieldy for prayer. That’s because we approach prayer as pure duty rather than pure desire. Hence, we chuck prayer because we don’t immediately feel or see the results.
Most importantly, Jared asserts, there’s no wiggle room in Scripture for us to shirk our responsibility to pray. God commands it. But what if we don’t view prayer as just another thing for the checklist? What if we deem prayer the thing that makes the checklist doable? In addition, what if we look for relationship, rather than results, in prayer? Then, Pastor Wilson states, we’ll find prayer more appealing. The author concludes:
“If the God of the universe is in control of our days and loves us enough to provide comfort and power for those who seek him, wouldn’t prayer be the most important part of our day?”
Today’s question: How much time do you commit to intentional solitude in prayer? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Worshipful prayer as a duty, or duty as a worshipful prayer?”
