Adverbs in Prayer

Adverbs are a part of speech that describe action.  Usually they end in “ly” though not always.  You can run “quickly” or “slowly”.  You can work “tirelessly” or “lazily”.  The adverbs help us to know how the action verb is working.  When you think of the word “pray” as a verb, what adverbs fit for your prayer life?  Do words like “frequently” and “passionately” describe your prayer time or do other less action oriented words fit better?  Look at how Paul describes prayer in verse 2 of Colossians 4:  “² Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving;”  There are two words or phrases that describe prayer here: “earnestly” and “being vigilant”. How do those words match up with your prayer habit?  Do we even think about prayer in this way?  Is prayer often more of an afterthought…before a meal…before a trip…etc…? The kind of prayer that Paul has in mind here is prayer that is passionate and purposeful.  Earnest prayer is prayer that really expects God to do something.  Being vigilant indicates prayer that is important and takes priority.  I hope that these words describe what prayer is to you.  Earnest and vigilant prayer is what God desires from us because He knows it is best for us.