Last Sunday, I shared a 10-minute message on the Zeo YouTube challenge exploring our first new value, Closeness with Christ.
It reminded me of these words from the Apostle Pau in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18…
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Pray continually? Can we really do that?
Jesus is teaching us right now to build fresh daily habits of being with Him every day (we’re using the Zeo Book for this and it’s not too late to join in!). It’s a good thing to set some time aside to start your day with Jesus each day. You’ll be better for it.
But what about the rest of the day? What does it look like to pray continually?
There’s a well-known book called, Practising the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence, which inspires us to be more open and aware of the presence of God with us in the everyday moments of our day. We can snatch prayer moments at any point. Switch your mind from what you’re doing, and steal a minute to remind yourself that God is with you so that you can receive His peace, comfort, love, hope, strength – whatever you need from Him.
Why not set a series of random alarms on your phone throughout the day as little prayer prompts? Even for just 20 seconds. To pause. Receive His love. Express gratitude for His presence. The more we become aware that Jesus is with us all the time, the more our lives become a constant connection with Heaven – and that’s bringing us life and helping us see whatever we’re facing with God’s perspective.
Jesus, we ask that you help us to become more and more aware that you are with us always. Help us to be intentional about connecting with you throughout the everyday moments. Amen.
