An Effective Prayer Life

Colossians 4

“No ministry can succeed without much praying, and this praying must be fundamental, ever-abiding, ever-increasing... The preacher that prays in deed puts God into the work. God does not come into the preacher’s work as a matter of course or on general principles, but he comes by prayer and special urgency. That God will be found of us in the day that we seek him with the whole heart is as true of the preacher as of the penitent.” EM Bounds.

Paul’s teaching in Colossians 4 addresses three common challenges to effective prayer: the lack of dedication (Devote yourselves!), a sluggish approach to prayer (keep alert!), and prayers filled with requests but devoid of thanksgiving.

“Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. 3 At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— 4 that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak. 5 Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. 6 Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.” Colossians 4:2–6 (ESV)

In these first verses, Paul requests prayer for, first, his preaching ministry, for good opportunities and an open door. Perhaps opportunities had been curtailed by his imprisonment.

Second, Paul asked prayer that he might be enabled by God to make clear the mystery of Christ. Even Paul, the experienced apostle, needed prayer. Paul asked not for an open prison door but for an open door of ministry.

“For a wide door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many adversaries.” 1 Corinthians 16:9 (ESV)

As believers know, the unsaved are outside the family of God, and it is the followers task to bring them in. We are called to make disciples that make disciples. Effective witness involves walking wisely, being alert to every opportunity, and being careful in what we say and how we say it to those far from God.

“Tychicus will tell you all about my activities. He is a beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. 8 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are and that he may encourage your hearts, 9 and with him Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you of everything that has taken place here.” Colossians 4:7–9 (ESV)

Paul did not hesitate to share his needs with others, because he depended on their prayer support.

“I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf,” Romans 15:30(ESV)

Paul closes out his letter to the Colossians naming six men who were working at his side and encouraging him in the Lord. Even an apostle cannot get the job done alone, and how grateful he was for the saints serving faithfully in Colosse!

Do you pray for Christian leaders in places of importance? Are you seeking to come along side of the leaders in your church? Are you supporting those reaching the various people groups that need to hear the hope of Jesus Christ and the Gospel that brings hope and eternal life?
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Today, pray for the men and women who serve with Christian leaders, that they might be faithful to the Lord, and pray for the leaders and the lost.

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