By Katy Mariotti

Pray Without Ceasing

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 New International Version

I’m very blessed to have heard about God’s love from the time I was born. However, having my own children has let me understand it in a way I never had before. I understand how God wants the best for us in the way that I want the best for my children. I understand how God delights in us by how delighted I am by my children. And I understand, more than ever, how God wants us to speak to Him.

School has recently started and while I do appreciate the little bit of time I now have to get things done, I really enjoy being with my kids, and I miss them terribly when they’re at school. I wish I could see what they’re learning, who they’re becoming friends with, what choices they’re making. When I ask them at the end of the day “how was school?” I get the requisite “good.” I ask more probing questions and get a little more, but I would say the majority of the school day remains a mystery.

I’m so grateful for what my children do share with me, and I’m also grateful that they let me know when they need something. But what I really want to hear is everything! I want to hear what they love and what worries them and what they think about. Based on the number of passages in the Bible about prayer, to me it seems obvious that God is the same. He wants us to tell Him what we want, but He also just wants to hear from us. Scripture says:

“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.”
Colossians 4:2 New International Version

Pray continuously. Be steadfast in prayer. God loves us as His children and wants us to share everything.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado.