Finding Time to Pray

Scripture: Devote yourselves to prayer; stay alert in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us that God may open a door to us for the message, to speak the mystery of the Messiah, for which I am in prison, so that I may reveal it as I am required to speak. Colossians 4:2-4

Observation: As previously seen, Paul is writing to a church he has not visited and did not plant, but has only heard their story. It is as he notes his final thoughts that he reveals a little of his circumstance - this is being written while he is in prison.

One can reach a lot of assumptions about why Paul chose to write to Colossae, but perhaps the most simple and logical reason is also the correct one ... he simply had a lot of time on his hands. Paul does not dwell on his condition, or spend time lamenting his circumstance. He is locked up, so he chooses to spend that spare time praying for everyone, and encouraging strangers he has never met.

Application: How do I spend my spare time?  I tend to ... play video games, revisit problems in my head, and watch sports. I complain that I do not pray enough, yet clearly I have all the time I need to pray. This is the opportunity of down time, to spend time in reflection with God. As I continue to seek a stronger relationship with God, I will also be reminded of Paul's proper use of idle time. He turned idle time into eternal value. I may not have that call, but I can turn idle time into meaningful prayer that can aid my family, friends, church, community, peers, staff, and ... myself.

Prayer: Lord, I spend time in unfocused and small prayers, but I do wish to have focused time with you, in relationship. You have shown me the opportunity I have for this. Please remind me when the time comes, so I may indeed focus on you and things above during my down time. Amen.