As the Church receives this final instruction from Paul, we ought to note two very important words he uses and defines them, as they are components that mark the disciple of Jesus and the body of Christ as a whole:

Steadfast: “firmly fixed in place; not subject to change; firm in belief, determination, or adherence”
Watchful: “carefully observant or attentive”

Paul did not choose the words he wrote because they sounded smart or filled the page. He, being inspired by the Spirit of God, chose words because they (to this day) teach, convict, remind, correct, and train the reader in the ways of Jesus [II Timothy 3.16-17].

Here, Paul reminds the Church to pray in a steadfast manner and to remain watchful in their word choice through giving thanks, rather than being calloused–because as followers of Jesus, we have much to be thankful for. Especially in the USA. He reminds us of his mission and devotion to the body of Christ, regardless of his current circumstances.

Let us be encouraged today by what Paul has to share while he is in physical chains to man, but spiritual chains to Christ.

[Colossians 4.2-4]

4.2 Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. 3 At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— 4 that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ Being in continuous prayer seems impossible. What does Paul mean when he says to always be praying and living in thankfulness?

+ Who is “us” in v. 3?

+ Why does Paul remind us to pray for others? And in this case, the laborers for the Good News?

+ What is Paul’s goal? [See Colossians 2.1-3]

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ How does this passage of Scripture pertain to me, as I live in the 21st-century church here in the USA?

+ Do I ask others to pray for my thoughts, words, actions, and mission?

+ Do I pray for others instead of always focusing on myself or the circumstances affecting me?

+ In what ways do I need to be more steadfast or watchful?

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?

+ What mission am I alongside that I can be praying for that they have open doors to declare Christ, and to have clear, Holy Spirit led words in doing so?