Pray Without Ceasing

“Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.”
(1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
Prepared by Patrick J. Griffiths

This has always proved perplexing if not viewed from the right perspective. If it speaks to physical posturing, then a monastic structure is essential. If, however, it speaks of spiritual posturing whereby we live with a spirit of humility and a mind of remembering, then the call to pray without ceasing is more plausible.

To pray without ceasing has little to do with one’s setting and more to do with one’s attitude. Even with significant distraction intense prayer can and does happen in short bursts (i.e. Peter crying out to God when sinking in the water). Yet there are protracted occasions whereby one struggles and agonizes in prayer (i.e. the garden of Gethsemane).

When placing this in “real time” we see the ability for busy mothers to persist in prayer and to live with a God-conscience whereby they are always mindful of their place within The Story.

Persistent prayer is not contingent on the busyness of one’s schedule. Persistent prayer is dictated by one’s perspective and mindset. Persistent prayer can use the discipline of lists, but can equally be unbridled and spontaneous. There is nothing dictating what is or is not habitual apart from one’s attitude of humility and remembrance.

So regardless as to where you and I find ourselves during our season of prayer and fasting, let us persist in humbly acknowledging He is God and we are not and how our lives with all their complexity and (perhaps) confusion are a part of His one Story.

May you rest in peace knowing His love is without condition, His acceptance is without requirement, His favor is without merit, His forgiveness is without limit and His service is without reward.