Twin Peaks

The scripture for today is 1 Thessalonians 5:17

 

1 Thessalonians 5:17 Pray without ceasing.

 

The injunction to pray without ceasing is more than a mere suggestion. It is an admonition to sustain our lives, for without continuous prayer, we will die spiritually. “Unceasing prayer is the unbroken union of the soul with God, so that life from God flows into our life; and from our life, purity and holiness flow back to God.” Ellen White, Steps to Christ p. 98

 

We all eat without ceasing; that is, we never stop eating, or else we would eventually die. It does not mean, however, that we are eating every minute of the day. We eat regularly, and we never cease to eat regularly. The meal that we ate earlier, is still with us being digested by our bodies. Eventually, we will eat again and the process continues. Just as we eat without ceasing, we should pray without ceasing. In addition, we are always in a “spirit of prayer” and are ready to offer our prayers to God instantly. Our spiritual lives depend upon it.  

 

“We should pray in the family circle, and above all we must not neglect secret prayer, for this is the life of the soul. It is impossible for the soul to flourish while prayer is neglected. Family or public prayer alone is not sufficient. In solitude let the soul be laid open to the inspecting eye of God. Secret prayer is to be heard only by the prayer-hearing God. No curious ear is to receive the burden of such petitions. In secret prayer the soul is free from surrounding influences, free from excitement. Calmly, yet fervently, will it reach out after God. Sweet and abiding will be the influence emanating from Him who seeth in secret, whose ear is open to hear the prayer arising from the heart. By calm, simple faith the soul holds communion with God and gathers to itself rays of divine light to strengthen and sustain it in the conflict with Satan. God is our tower of strength.” Ellen White, Steps to Christ p. 98

 

God bless you as you continue in His service.

Tim