Northern Roads by Jeremy Norton
Bible, Discipleship, NT, Outreach

Why I Need to Close My Mouth and Bow My Head

“…we have not ceased to pray for you…”

Paul writing to the Colossian Church:

“9 And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10 so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy; 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.” (Col. 1:9-12)

After reading this passage, perhaps you’re having the same thought that I’m having…

I need to pray for people more!

This is one of those passages that convicts me before I’ve even finished reading it. One of those passages that make me feel like I’ve been neglecting the foundations of my faith. This is one of those passages that causes me to ask how I could be so rooted in my own stuff, that I forget about this key piece of becoming Christ-like?

Fortunately, everyone within the Body of Christ has been given different gifts and abilities. Not to make an excuse for myself, not praying for the needs of others, but I do know of one man who’s consistently got it covered. For this post, we’ll call him S for anonymity. S is a Prayer Warrior!

I’m thankful for Prayer Warriors!

S is a mild-mannered man who has a huge heart. S is passionate about people embracing Christ, and living their lives on Biblical principles. S has a deep desire to see all people grow, and more importantly, receive healing from whatever hurt they have stumbled into.

S is willing to give the awkward “maybe we should bring this to the Lord in prayer” comment. Everyone knows that it needed to be said, but we’re often too afraid of the awkwardness to let it slip out of our mouths.

Colossians 1:9

When I read verse 9 and these words: “we have not ceased to pray for you”, I can’t help but think of S. And the testimony of Prayer Warriors like S. They motivate me to strive for where I’m lacking. They remind me to close my mouth and bow my head.

Perhaps it’s not a person, but a passage of Scripture? Or a single verse like Colossians 1:9? If you have the time, please feel free to share your thoughts.

Join the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts

  • Do you have an S in your life?
  • Do you know a person who consistently moves others toward prayer, despite embarrassment or awkwardness?
  • Who or what causes you to close your mouth and bow your head?

Your thoughts are valuable! Why not leave a few?