Topical Bible: Prayer: Continue Instant In

◄ Prayer: Continue Instant In ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

The concept of "Continue Instant In" prayer is derived from the Apostle Paul's exhortation in the New Testament, specifically in his epistle to the Romans. The phrase emphasizes the importance of persistent and earnest prayer in the life of a believer. It underscores the necessity of maintaining a constant and immediate connection with God through prayer, regardless of circumstances.

Biblical Foundation

The primary scriptural reference for this concept is found in Romans 12:12, where Paul instructs the believers: "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, persistent in prayer" . The phrase "persistent in prayer" is often understood as being "instant" or "constant" in prayer, highlighting the urgency and continuity of prayer in the Christian life.

Theological Significance

Prayer is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith, serving as a means of communication with God. The call to "continue instant in prayer" reflects the belief that prayer should be an ongoing, dynamic practice rather than a sporadic or ritualistic activity. This continuous engagement in prayer is seen as vital for spiritual growth, strength, and guidance.

From a theological perspective, this exhortation aligns with the understanding that prayer is both a privilege and a responsibility for believers. It is through prayer that Christians express their dependence on God, seek His will, and intercede for others. The immediacy implied in "instant" prayer suggests a readiness to turn to God at any moment, reflecting a life attuned to His presence and purposes.

Practical Application

In practical terms, "continuing instant in prayer" involves cultivating a lifestyle where prayer is integrated into every aspect of daily life. This can be achieved through:

1. Regular Prayer Times: Setting aside specific times each day for focused prayer helps establish a routine that prioritizes communication with God.

2. Spontaneous Prayer: Being open to praying at any moment, whether in response to a sudden need, a prompting of the Holy Spirit, or a moment of gratitude.

3. Prayerful Attitude: Maintaining an attitude of prayerfulness throughout the day, where one's thoughts and actions are continually aligned with God's will.

4. Community Prayer: Engaging in prayer with others, whether in small groups, church gatherings, or prayer meetings, to encourage and support one another in faith.

Biblical Examples

The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals who exemplified a life of continuous prayer. Daniel is noted for his unwavering commitment to prayer, even in the face of persecution (Daniel 6:10). The early church is described as being devoted to prayer, as seen in Acts 2:42: "They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer" .

Jesus Himself modeled a life of persistent prayer, often withdrawing to solitary places to pray (Luke 5:16). His example serves as the ultimate guide for believers, demonstrating the importance of maintaining a close relationship with the Father through prayer.

Conclusion

The call to "continue instant in prayer" is a timeless exhortation that challenges believers to prioritize their relationship with God through consistent and fervent prayer. It is a reminder of the power and necessity of prayer in navigating the complexities of life and fulfilling the Christian mission.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Romans 12:12
Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Paul, the Teacher of Prayer
... To pray everywhere, to pray in everything, to continue instant in prayer, and to
pray without ceasing, thus Paul spoke as a commentator on the Divine uses and ...
/.../bounds/prayer and praying men/xii paul the teacher of.htm

Constant, Instant, Expectant
... Continue instant in prayer, it shall be the test of whether your prayer is
a lamp of the Lord or a dying light of your own kindling. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 25 1879/constant instant expectant.htm

Mental Prayer.
... be made known unto God[5]." To the Colossians, "Continue in prayer, and watch in
the same with thanksgiving." To the Romans, "Continue instant in prayer[6].". ...
/.../newman/parochial and plain sermons vol vii/sermon xv mental prayer.htm

"Be Ye Therefore Sober, and Watch unto Prayer. "
... Thirdly. Prayer must be watched unto. We must not only pray, but continue
"instant in prayer," Romans 12:12. We must "continue in ...
/.../binning/the works of the rev hugh binning/sermon xxii be ye therefore.htm

Prayer and the Word of God
... "Pray without ceasing;" "continue in prayer;" "continuing instant in prayer;" "in
everything by prayer, let your request be made known unto God;" "pray always ...
/.../bounds/the necessity of prayer/xii prayer and the word.htm

Chapter ii
... the twelfth chapter of Romans, we have the words, "Continuing instant in prayer ... Paul
presses the word into the service of prayer again, "Continue in prayer ...
//christianbookshelf.org/bounds/the possibilities of prayer/chapter ii.htm

The Privilege of Prayer
... We are to be "instant in prayer," to "continue in prayer, and watch in the same
with thanksgiving." Romans 12:12; Colossians 4:2. Peter exhorts believers to be ...
//christianbookshelf.org/white/steps to christ/chapter 11 the privilege of.htm

Epistle vii. To the Clergy, Concerning Prayer to God.
... as the Apostle Paul bids us, saying, "Continue in prayer ... to pray, and continued all
night in prayer to God ... prayed, how much more ought we to be instant in prayers ...
/.../cyprian/the epistles of cyprian/epistle vii to the clergy.htm

A Prayer for a Sick Man, when He is Told that He is not a Man for ...
... and a merciful Redeemer; and at that instant, O Lord ... thy grace; and let thy Holy
Spirit continue with me ... these things at thy hand, in that prayer which Christ ...
//christianbookshelf.org/bayly/the practice of piety/a prayer for a sick.htm

The Third State of Prayer. The Effects Thereof. The Hindrance ...
... heavenly Gardener has given them to it in that instant. ... this is most plain; and the
virtues continue to grow ... Lord to explain these states of prayer, wherein the ...
/.../teresa/the life of st teresa of jesus/chapter xvii the third state.htm