Concerning calm and unceasing prayer the Lord said:
“]Take good care not to indulge in drunkenness and worldly cares.”
“Stay awake and pray, lest temptation overcome you.”
“What I say to you, I say to all: Be vigilant. Keep watch.” And:
“Ask and it shall be given to you, seek and you shall find, knock at the door
and it shall be opened to you.” For he who asks receives and he who seeks
finds and he who knocks on the door, it will be opened.” The Lord even told
them a parable about how they should always be watchful and not shut up in
prayer. He told them the parable of the unjust judge:”;There was an unjust
judge…”;. And “Be ready, for your Lord will come when you least expect him.”
And the Apostle says: “Be always joyful. Pray without ceasing. Give thanks to
God for everything.” “Work with the fear of God and the awe of your
salvation.” “I remember you unceasingly, every time I pray.” “On every
occasion, address your requests to God in prayer and supplication
accompanied by thanksgiving.” Further: “Around midnight, Paul and Silas
prayed and sang praises to God in prison”.
So: “Be calm and watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls about like a
roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.”
From the Great Gerontikon
Translated by Dr. Nick Stergiou
Advice on Praying
