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class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/colossians/4.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/colossians/4.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/colossians/4.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/colossians/4.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/colossians/4.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/colossians/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />Continue steadfastly in prayer, watching in it, with thanksgiving,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/colossians/4.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/colossians/4.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/colossians/4.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with <i>an attitude of</i> thanksgiving;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/colossians/4.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/colossians/4.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with <i>an attitude of</i> thanksgiving;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/colossians/4.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/colossians/4.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />Be persistent <i>and</i> devoted to prayer, being alert <i>and</i> focused in your prayer life with <i>an attitude of</i> thanksgiving.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/colossians/4.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Devote yourselves to prayer; stay alert in it with thanksgiving.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/colossians/4.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Devote yourselves to prayer; stay alert in it with thanksgiving. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/colossians/4.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Continue stedfastly in prayer, watching therein with thanksgiving;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/colossians/4.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />Never give up praying. And when you pray, keep alert and be thankful. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/colossians/4.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Continue stedfastly in prayer, watching therein with thanksgiving;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/colossians/4.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Keep praying. Pay attention when you offer prayers of thanksgiving.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/colossians/4.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />Be persistent in prayer, and keep alert as you pray, giving thanks to God. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/colossians/4.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Devote yourselves to prayer. Be alert and thankful when you pray. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/colossians/4.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/colossians/4.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />Be devoted to prayer, keeping alert in it with thanksgiving.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/colossians/4.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Continue steadfastly in prayer, watching in it with thanksgiving;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/colossians/4.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/colossians/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />Be earnest and unwearied in prayer, being on the alert in it and in your giving of thanks.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/colossians/4.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Continue steadfastly in prayer, watching in it with thanksgiving, <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/colossians/4.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />Continue in the prayer, watching in it in thanksgiving,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/colossians/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />Continue steadfastly in prayer, watching in it, with thanksgiving,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/colossians/4.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> In the prayer continue ye, watching in it in thanksgiving;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/colossians/4.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />In prayer persevere, watching in it in gratitude.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/colossians/4.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />Be instant in prayer; watching in it with thanksgiving: <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/colossians/4.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />Pursue prayer. Be watchful in prayer with acts of thanksgiving.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/colossians/4.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Persevere in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/colossians/4.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with thanksgiving.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/colossians/4.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/aramaic-plain-english/colossians/4.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a></span><br />Persevere in prayer and be watching in it and giving thanks.<div class="vheading2"><b>NT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/anderson/colossians/4.htm">Anderson New Testament</a></span><br />Persevere in prayer, and be watchful in the same with thanksgiving;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/godbey/colossians/4.htm">Godbey New Testament</a></span><br />Be constant in prayer, watching in the same with thanksgiving;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/haweis/colossians/4.htm">Haweis New Testament</a></span><br />Persevere in prayer, watching therein with thanksgiving;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/mace/colossians/4.htm">Mace New Testament</a></span><br />Persevere and be vigilant in prayer and in thanksgiving:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/colossians/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />Be earnest and unwearied in prayer, being on the alert in it and in your giving of thanks.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worrell/colossians/4.htm">Worrell New Testament</a></span><br />Persevere in prayer, watching therein with thanksgiving;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worsley/colossians/4.htm">Worsley New Testament</a></span><br />Persevere in prayer, and be watchful in it, with thanksgiving.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/colossians/4-2.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7q-K-qsfihQ?start=729" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/colossians/4.htm">Fellow Workers</a></span><br><span class="reftext">1</span>Masters, supply your slaves with what is right and fair, since you know that you also have a Master in heaven. <span class="reftext">2</span><span class="highl"><a href="/greek/4342.htm" title="4342: proskartereite (V-PMA-2P) -- To persist, persevere in, continue steadfast in; I wait upon. ">Devote yourselves</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: Tē (Art-DFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">to</a> <a href="/greek/4335.htm" title="4335: proseuchē (N-DFS) -- From proseuchomai; prayer; by implication, an oratory.">prayer,</a> <a href="/greek/1127.htm" title="1127: grēgorountes (V-PPA-NMP) -- (a) I am awake (in the night), watch, (b) I am watchful, on the alert, vigilant. From egeiro; to keep awake, i.e. Watch.">being watchful</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">and</a> <a href="/greek/2169.htm" title="2169: eucharistia (N-DFS) -- Thankfulness, gratitude; giving of thanks, thanksgiving. From eucharistos; gratitude; actively, grateful language.">thankful,</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autē (PPro-DF3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons."></a> </span> <span class="reftext">3</span>as you pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_thessalonians/5-17.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:17</a></span><br />Pray without ceasing.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ephesians/6-18.htm">Ephesians 6:18</a></span><br />Pray in the Spirit at all times, with every kind of prayer and petition. To this end, stay alert with all perseverance in your prayers for all the saints.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/philippians/4-6.htm">Philippians 4:6</a></span><br />Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/12-12.htm">Romans 12:12</a></span><br />Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, persistent in prayer.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/18-1.htm">Luke 18:1</a></span><br />Then Jesus told them a parable about their need to pray at all times and not lose heart:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/26-41.htm">Matthew 26:41</a></span><br />“Watch and pray so that you will not enter into temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/1-14.htm">Acts 1:14</a></span><br />With one accord they all continued in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/5-16.htm">James 5:16</a></span><br />Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/4-7.htm">1 Peter 4:7</a></span><br />The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear-minded and sober, so that you can pray.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/mark/13-33.htm">Mark 13:33</a></span><br />Be on your guard and stay alert! For you do not know when the appointed time will come.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_timothy/2-1.htm">1 Timothy 2:1</a></span><br />First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered for everyone—<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/hebrews/13-15.htm">Hebrews 13:15</a></span><br />Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise, the fruit of lips that confess His name.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/145-18.htm">Psalm 145:18</a></span><br />The LORD is near to all who call on Him, to all who call out to Him in truth.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/5-3.htm">Psalm 5:3</a></span><br />In the morning, O LORD, You hear my voice; at daybreak I lay my plea before You and wait in expectation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/daniel/6-10.htm">Daniel 6:10</a></span><br />Now when Daniel learned that the document had been signed, he went into his house, where the windows of his upper room opened toward Jerusalem, and three times a day he got down on his knees, prayed, and gave thanks to his God, just as he had done before.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2"> Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;</p><p class="hdg">Continue.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/colossians/4-12.htm">Colossians 4:12</a></b></br> Epaphras, who is <i>one</i> of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/colossians/1-9.htm">Colossians 1:9</a></b></br> For this cause we also, since the day we heard <i>it</i>, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_samuel/12-23.htm">1 Samuel 12:23</a></b></br> Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way:</p><p class="hdg">See on</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/luke/18-1.htm">Luke 18:1</a></b></br> And he spake a parable unto them <i>to this end</i>, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/romans/12-12.htm">Romans 12:12</a></b></br> Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/ephesians/6-18.htm">Ephesians 6:18</a></b></br> Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;</p><p class="hdg">watch.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/matthew/26-41.htm">Matthew 26:41</a></b></br> Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed <i>is</i> willing, but the flesh <i>is</i> weak.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/mark/13-33.htm">Mark 13:33</a></b></br> Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/luke/21-36.htm">Luke 21:36</a></b></br> Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.</p><p class="hdg">thanksgiving.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/colossians/2-7.htm">Colossians 2:7</a></b></br> Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/colossians/3-15.htm">Colossians 3:15,17</a></b></br> And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful… </p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/ephesians/6-18.htm">Alert</a> <a href="/philippians/3-15.htm">Attitude</a> <a href="/colossians/2-6.htm">Continue</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/7-5.htm">Devote</a> <a href="/colossians/1-29.htm">Earnest</a> <a href="/philippians/2-4.htm">Keeping</a> <a href="/philippians/3-16.htm">Persevere</a> <a href="/colossians/3-17.htm">Praise</a> <a href="/colossians/1-9.htm">Prayer</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-13.htm">Steadfastly</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-13.htm">Stedfastly</a> <a href="/colossians/3-15.htm">Thankful</a> <a href="/colossians/3-17.htm">Thanks</a> <a href="/colossians/2-7.htm">Thanksgiving</a> <a href="/colossians/2-7.htm">Therein</a> <a href="/colossians/3-15.htm">Times</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-18.htm">Unwearied</a> <a href="/philippians/3-2.htm">Watch</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-18.htm">Watchful</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-18.htm">Watching</a> <a href="/colossians/3-18.htm">Yourselves</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_thessalonians/5-6.htm">Alert</a> <a href="/james/2-1.htm">Attitude</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/4-15.htm">Continue</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-4.htm">Devote</a> <a href="/hebrews/2-1.htm">Earnest</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/1-2.htm">Keeping</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-16.htm">Persevere</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/1-2.htm">Praise</a> <a href="/colossians/4-3.htm">Prayer</a> <a href="/genesis/24-21.htm">Steadfastly</a> <a href="/genesis/24-21.htm">Stedfastly</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-18.htm">Thankful</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/1-2.htm">Thanks</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-9.htm">Thanksgiving</a> <a href="/hebrews/4-6.htm">Therein</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/1-2.htm">Times</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">Unwearied</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-6.htm">Watch</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-7.htm">Watchful</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-10.htm">Watching</a> <a href="/colossians/4-5.htm">Yourselves</a><div class="vheading2">Colossians 4</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/colossians/4-1.htm">He exhorts them to be fervent in prayer;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">5. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/colossians/4-5.htm">to walk wisely toward those who are not yet come to the true knowledge of Christ.</a></span><br><span class="reftext">10. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/colossians/4-10.htm">He salutes them, and wishes them all prosperity.</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/colossians/4.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/colossians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/colossians/4.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>Devote yourselves to prayer</b><br>The call to "devote yourselves to prayer" emphasizes the importance of persistent and continuous communication with God. In the early church, prayer was a foundational practice, as seen in <a href="/acts/2-42.htm">Acts 2:42</a>, where believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. The Greek word for "devote" implies a steadfast and unwavering commitment, suggesting that prayer should be a regular and integral part of a believer's life. This aligns with Jesus' teachings in <a href="/luke/18.htm">Luke 18:1</a>, where He encourages His followers to always pray and not lose heart. The early Christians understood prayer as a means of aligning themselves with God's will, seeking His guidance, and interceding for others.<p><b>being watchful</b><br>The instruction to be "watchful" in prayer carries the connotation of spiritual alertness and vigilance. This echoes Jesus' exhortation to His disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane to "watch and pray" (<a href="/matthew/26-41.htm">Matthew 26:41</a>) so that they would not fall into temptation. The term suggests an awareness of the spiritual realities and challenges that believers face, including the schemes of the enemy (<a href="/1_peter/5-8.htm">1 Peter 5:8</a>). In a historical context, the Colossian church was dealing with false teachings and heresies, making spiritual vigilance crucial. Being watchful also implies an expectation of Christ's return, as believers are called to live in readiness for His coming (<a href="/1_thessalonians/5-6.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:6</a>).<p><b>and thankful</b><br>Thankfulness in prayer reflects a heart of gratitude towards God for His grace, provision, and faithfulness. The Apostle Paul frequently emphasizes thanksgiving in his letters, as seen in <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-18.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:18</a>, where he instructs believers to give thanks in all circumstances. This attitude of gratitude is not dependent on external circumstances but is rooted in the believer's relationship with Christ and the recognition of His sovereignty and goodness. In the cultural context of the Colossians, where pagan practices often involved appeasing capricious deities, the Christian practice of thankfulness highlighted a distinct and personal relationship with a loving and faithful God. This thankfulness is also a response to the work of Christ, who is the ultimate expression of God's love and provision for humanity.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul</a></b><br>- The apostle who authored the letter to the Colossians, providing guidance and encouragement to the early Christian church.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/c/colossae.htm">Colossae</a></b><br>- An ancient city in Phrygia, Asia Minor, where the recipients of the letter, the Colossian church, were located.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_colossian_church.htm">The Colossian Church</a></b><br>- A group of early Christians who were the direct audience of Paul's letter, facing challenges from false teachings and needing encouragement in their faith.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/d/devotion_to_prayer.htm">Devotion to Prayer</a></b><br>The Greek word for "devote" implies a steadfast, persistent commitment. Christians are called to prioritize prayer as a central part of their spiritual lives.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/b/being_watchful.htm">Being Watchful</a></b><br>The term "watchful" suggests vigilance and alertness. Believers should be spiritually aware, discerning the times, and attentive to God's guidance.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/c/cultivating_thankfulness.htm">Cultivating Thankfulness</a></b><br>Thanksgiving is an essential aspect of prayer, fostering a heart of gratitude and recognizing God's goodness and provision in all circumstances.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/p/prayer_as_a_spiritual_discipline.htm">Prayer as a Spiritual Discipline</a></b><br>Regular, disciplined prayer strengthens our relationship with God, aligns our will with His, and equips us to face spiritual battles.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/c/community_and_intercession.htm">Community and Intercession</a></b><br>Prayer is not only personal but also communal. Interceding for others builds unity within the body of Christ and reflects the love and concern we are to have for one another.<a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/colossians/4.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>[<span class= "bld">7.Conclusion of the Epistle.</span><p>(1)FINAL EXHORTATION to prayer (especially for St. Paul himself), and to wisdom towards those without, both in deed and in word (<a href="/context/colossians/4-2.htm" title=" Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;">Colossians 4:2-6</a>).<p>(2)COMMENDATION of Tychicus and Onesimus (<a href="/context/colossians/4-7.htm" title=" All my state shall Tychicus declare to you, who is a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord:">Colossians 4:7-9</a>).<p>(3)SALUTATION from Aristarchus, Marcus, Justus, Epaphras, Luke, Demas (<a href="/context/colossians/4-10.htm" title=" Aristarchus my fellow prisoner salutes you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas, (touching whom you received commandments: if he come to you, receive him;)">Colossians 4:10-14</a>).<p>(4)CHARGE to this Church to exchange greetings and letters with the Laodicean Church, and special charge to Archippus (<a href="/context/colossians/4-15.htm" title=" Salute the brothers which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house.">Colossians 4:15-17</a>). . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/colossians/4.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verses 2-6.</span> - SECTION IX. PRAYER AND SOCIAL CONVERSE. There are added some brief exhortations of a more general tenor, the contents of which are summed up in the heading given to this section. <span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 2.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Continue steadfast in prayer, being watchful</span> (or, <span class="accented">wakeful</span>) <span class="cmt_word">therein, with thanksgiving</span> (<a href="/ephesians/6-18.htm">Ephesians 6:18</a>; <a href="/romans/12-12.htm">Romans 12:12</a>; <a href="/philippians/4-6.htm">Philippians 4:6</a>; <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-17.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:17, 18</a>; <a href="/1_timothy/2-1.htm">1 Timothy 2:1</a>; <a href="/luke/11-5.htm">Luke 11:5-10</a>; <a href="/luke/18-1.htm">Luke 18:1-8</a>; <a href="/luke/21-36.htm">Luke 21:36</a>; <a href="/acts/1-14.htm">Acts 1:14</a>; <a href="/acts/20-31.htm">Acts 20:31</a>; <a href="/1_corinthians/16-13.htm">1 Corinthians 16:13</a>; <a href="/1_peter/5-8.htm">1 Peter 5:8</a>; <a href="/matthew/26-41.htm">Matthew 26:41</a>; <a href="/mark/14-38.htm">Mark 14:38</a>). "Steadfast continuance" in prayer is specially illustrated in our Lord's sayings on the subject in St. Luke (comp. <a href="/acts/1-14.htm">Acts 1:14</a>, where the same peculiar verb is used). In <a href="/philippians/4-6.htm">Philippians 4:6</a>; <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-17.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:17, 18</a>; <a href="/1_timothy/2.htm">1 Timothy 2</a>:l, again "thanksgiving" is associated with "prayer." <span class="accented">Wakefulness</span> in prayer is enjoined by Christ in <a href="/matthew/26-41.htm">Matthew 26:41</a> and <a href="/mark/14-38.htm">Mark 14:38</a>: compare the synonymous <span class="greek">ἀγρυπνέω</span>, <span class="accented">to be sleepless</span>, used in <a href="/ephesians/6-1.htm">Ephesians 6:1, 2</a>; <a href="/mark/13-33.htm">Mark 13:33</a>; <a href="/luke/21-36.htm">Luke 21:36</a>; <a href="/hebrews/13-17.htm">Hebrews 13:17</a>. "To be awake" is to be alive in the fullest sense, to have all the powers of perception and action in readiness. The activity of the soul in prayer is to be both energetic and incessant. "With [literally <span class="accented">in</span>, <span class="greek">ἐν</span>, not <span class="greek">μετὰ</span>, as in <a href="/ephesians/6-18.htm">Ephesians 6:18</a>] thanksgiving gives the pervading element or influence, in or under which the prayers of the Colossians were to be offered (comp. <a href="/colossians/1-12.htm">Colossians 1:12</a>; <a href="/colossians/2-7.htm">Colossians 2:7</a>; <a href="/colossians/3-15.htm">Colossians 3:15, 17</a>). <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/colossians/4-2.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div><span class="word">Devote yourselves</span><br /><span class="grk">προσκαρτερεῖτε</span> <span class="translit">(proskartereite)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Imperative Active - 2nd Person Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_4342.htm">Strong's 4342: </a> </span><span class="str2">To persist, persevere in, continue steadfast in; I wait upon. </span><br /><br /><span class="word">to</span><br /><span class="grk">Τῇ</span> <span class="translit">(Tē)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article - Dative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> </span><span class="str2">The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">prayer,</span><br /><span class="grk">προσευχῇ</span> <span class="translit">(proseuchē)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Dative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_4335.htm">Strong's 4335: </a> </span><span class="str2">From proseuchomai; prayer; by implication, an oratory.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">being watchful</span><br /><span class="grk">γρηγοροῦντες</span> <span class="translit">(grēgorountes)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1127.htm">Strong's 1127: </a> </span><span class="str2">(a) I am awake (in the night), watch, (b) I am watchful, on the alert, vigilant. From egeiro; to keep awake, i.e. Watch.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[and]</span><br /><span class="grk">ἐν</span> <span class="translit">(en)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> </span><span class="str2">In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">thankful,</span><br /><span class="grk">εὐχαριστίᾳ</span> <span class="translit">(eucharistia)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Dative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2169.htm">Strong's 2169: </a> </span><span class="str2">Thankfulness, gratitude; giving of thanks, thanksgiving. From eucharistos; gratitude; actively, grateful language.</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/colossians/4-2.htm">Colossians 4:2 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/colossians/4-2.htm">Colossians 4:2 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/colossians/4-2.htm">Colossians 4:2 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/colossians/4-2.htm">Colossians 4:2 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/colossians/4-2.htm">Colossians 4:2 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/colossians/4-2.htm">Colossians 4:2 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/colossians/4-2.htm">Colossians 4:2 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/colossians/4-2.htm">Colossians 4:2 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/colossians/4-2.htm">Colossians 4:2 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/colossians/4-2.htm">Colossians 4:2 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/colossians/4-2.htm">NT Letters: Colossians 4:2 Continue steadfastly in prayer watching therein (Coloss. Col Co) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/colossians/4-1.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Colossians 4:1"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Colossians 4:1" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/colossians/4-3.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Colossians 4:3"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Colossians 4:3" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>