I came upon it the other day for the very first time. So simple. So direct. So not what I am prone to do.
Devote: "to commit by a solemn act," Merriam Webster
This concise verse is packed with three verbs - devote, watch and thank. Devoting myself to prayer is not a natural inclination. While I consider prayer a daily act for me, I don't think it's rooted in solemn commitment. Rather, I usually pray to receive comfort, help, encouragement, direction, peace...the list goes on, but the point is, my prayers are often very me-centric. Something about this hidden treasure in Colossians struck me. It tells me to devote myself to spending time with the Lord, listening to Him, quieting my heart before Him, simply conversing - isn't that what prayer is?
Beyond devotion, I learned I am to be watchful and thankful. Being watchful seems a bit easier, doesn't it? I mean, after we petition before the Lord, it's natural to watch for results. But we know that the Lord answers our prayers, whatever they may be, in His perfect timing and in His way. This doesn't always align with our wants. But no matter the time or means of the Lord's reply, we are to be thankful.
I think it's a choice. Just like I choose to be happy and choose a positive attitude on any given day, I can choose these things.
Love your revelation! Even in a trial, we can be thankful to know who God is and what He promises.
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