Gratitude

Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving – Colossians 4:2

Two commands are given in this short directive from the apostle Paul: continue and watch.First, we are to continue, or persevere, in daily and fervent prayer to God. But as we do continually pray, Paul reminds us, we must be also careful to be determinedly “watching” for occasions of thanksgiving.

The word “watch” means to be vigilant, alert, attentive. It seems Paul knew that we have a tendency to grow selfish and unmindful of the Lord’s blessings in our lives. We begin to take even the greatest mercies and most undeserved gifts for granted. We forget to give thanks for each and every grace in our life.

In your ongoing prayers, be watchful for opportunities to give thanks. Is there something in this request for which I could also be giving thanks? Is there a reason to be grateful, even in the midst of this trial?

For instance, as I pray for this loved one to be healed, shouldn’t I be grateful for having the loved one in my life to begin with? As I pray for revival in our country, in our church, and in my home, shouldn’t I thank God for the promise that he will be found by those who seek him?

Beloved, be careful to pray today. And, as you pray, be careful to give thanks to God for his abundant provision and marvelous promises. Even in the needs, even in the sorrows, even in the trials there is always reason to be grateful.