"Pray without ceasing,"
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This admonition by Paul to pray is actually within a section where Paul lays out a short list of Christian virtues that provides foundational principles for a sound, spirit-filled life in Christ. The list includes: rejoicing, praying, giving thanks, not quenching the Holy Spirit, not despising prophesies, testing all things, holding fast to what is good, and avoiding every evil. If we could just focus on following this list throughout our daily lives, I am sure we would not only enjoy life more, but we would also be walking much closer to God.
But key among this list, and only second to rejoicing, is praying! Now this verse does not call us to constantly be spewing out vain repetitions, but it does call us to be in regular, persistent, and meaningful conversation with our Lord. Yesterday, as Kay was in surgery, we had many many people praying for us. In fact, right after Kay was wheeled into surgery, I sent a group text to several of our family saying "Restart prayers plz." (I had let everyone know that surgery had been delayed). I then received a text back from Kay's sister Linda, that said "never stopped". :) This reminded me that we should always be in a state of prayer and conversation with God, regardless of our current life situation.
So whether our lives are going smoothly or we are leaning into some trials, I pray that we regularly "present our requests to God, with thanksgiving". We'll keep everyone informed of Kay's recovery, and we are sincerely thankful for all the prayers we have received. I am certain God is smiling as we regularly fellowship with Him.
...and don't forget to love God with all your heart, love others as He does, and use every minute for His will and to His glory!
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