1 Thess 5:17 “Constantly pray~~”
The driving force of consistency in prayer is a joyful dependence on God as we acknowledge our own insufficiency. The more we think we can handle our lives and situations, the less we depend on God.
Paul needed God, “rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer” (Rom 12:12).
The imperative command to “pray,” which is expressed in the present imperative tense, means to be “constantly or habitually praying.” This does not mean to live in a monastery, but to live in the presence of God, mentally talking to God as though our thoughts were a two–person conversation. He is part of every thought.
As we know His word, we know what He thinks about our plans and dreams. Therefore, we talk to Him about how to apply His word in each situation.
Jesus taught, “Men always ought to pray and not lose heart” (Luke 18:1). Prayer dispels discouragement, disillusionment, and depression and is also a ministry to others: “For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers” (Rom 1:9).
The New Testament is full of examples of Paul’s prayers for others: “We do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy” (Col 1:9–-11)
Find a prayer partner and begin a prayer ministry for other believers and for the lost around the world. Believe that you can accomplish things for God through prayer. It is much more powerful than you can imagine.
“Thank You, Lord, that You are never far away. Your children can be continually in communication with You wherever we may be. I know we simply need to speak and You will hear.”