Spiritual Habit of Prayer - Living in the Presence of God (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

Sermon on 18 January 2026 by Pastor Gaius

Introduction

Prayer is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life.

Message

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

In these verses, Paul is telling us how important prayer is. In every situation you are in, give thanks. We give thanks even when I am weak or sorrowful, because we know that Christ is always with us.

Rejoice in the Lord. If you lack prayer, you do not have the habit of giving thanks in everything. And if you lack prayer, you will find it difficult to rejoice in everything. There are two aspects to prayer - individual and corporate (many people as one body). Your mind will be renewed and your life will be transformed. We are told to “pray without ceasing”. Paul is not saying that we pray all the time. It means being persistent.

Prayer is to constantly live in the presence of God, demonstrating our (i) dependence on God (Jeremiah 17:5-6), (ii) our gratitude to God (1 Thessalonians 5:18), and (iii) our relationship with God (1 Thessalonians 5:16).

Thus says the Lord: “Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart departs from the Lord. For he shall be like a shrub in the desert, and shall not see when good comes, but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land which is not inhabited. - Jeremiah 17:5-6

Prayer is our lifeline to God, a sacred conversation that strengthens our connection with Him (Philippians 4:6-7).

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:6-7

1. Prayer is a habit to be cultivated

Prayer is a posture of the heart; a habit of turning to God. It is an awareness that God is always near and listening. Jesus Himself often did so.

So He Himself often withdrew into the wilderness and prayed (Luke 5:16).

​Prayer is not about doing more; it is all about drawing near.

2. Prayer is an invitation to peace

The peace of God will guard your hearts and minds (Philippians 4:6-7). Hand over your anxiety to the one who is in control (Isaiah 45:5).

I am the Lord, and there is no other; there is no God besides Me. I will gird you, though you have not known Me, - Isaiah 45:5

Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved. - Psalm 55:22

3. Prayer is a conversation, not a performance

Prayer is not about fancy words. It is not about impressing others. Do not worry about your grammar. Prayer is simple, real, and unfiltered like a child. In Matthew chapter 6, Jesus taught us how to pray.

And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. - Matthew 6:5-6

Closing

Prayer is a spiritual habit of entering into His presence. Cultivate this habit. It is about showing up, and coming to Him honestly. Prayer is simple, real, and unfiltered like a child. Prayer is training yourself for godliness.

God wants to hear from you. God simply wants you!