What it Means to Be a Disciple: Pray Without Ceasing

“Pray without ceasing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17

One of the most important distinguishing factors between people who are lukewarm and people who are true disciples is this: Disciples are constantly praying. After all, it takes a relationship with Jesus to be his disciple.

Disciples look for opportunities to get alone with the Lord. They find joy in lifting up other people in prayer – and when they don’t, they fight for it! Disciples realize this: that prayer is powerful. James 5:13-18 says,

Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.

            Do you believe in the power of prayer? Do you believe that God hears you? Do you seek after him in prayer daily? If you don’t, then get down on your knees! God wants to know you deeply, and he will bless you if you sacrifice the time to be with him. If you do all of these things, then you are well on your way to being a disciple!