In Colossians 4:2 Paul gives us some insight which will be invaluable to bringing revival to Emporia.

“Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it”

In setting the stage for his eventual request that the Colossians pray for open doors for him, Paul asks the church to devote themselves to prayer. The term, “devote”, means that these prayers are not a light matter; rather, they are to be done with unrelenting persistence and loyalty.

The reason - our devotion to prayer is really devotion to God. And we must rely on His power to change human hearts and pierce satanic lies. Without God’s power all ministry will be fruitless and ineffectual.

In order to harness the power availed through prayer we must engage the throne of God watchfully. We must keep alert in it.

The disciples give us an example of what this does not mean in Matthew 26:40 “And He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, ‘So, you men could not keep watch with Me for one hour?’”

In contrast to the disciples’ sleepy disposition, we are to be mentally alert in our prayers, strategically going to the throne of God. As we walk through life, the circumstances and plight of others should motivate us to pray. When you check out at Walmart, pray that the cashier may know about riches in heaven. When you see a drunk college student, pray that he might be miserable in his sin. When you see an injured football player, pray that he will find comfort in Christ. In addition, pray against the enemy wreaking havoc on this city and hardening the hearts of Emporians.

May God use these strategic prayers to bring revival to our lost city.

Dave Hintz