1. Colossians 1:3 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

What word does “always” qualify?

Colossians 1:3 (ESV)

3 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you,

There is disagreement among commentators whether “always” qualifies the thanksgiving (“We always thank God”; ESV and NIV), or prayer (“Praying always for you”; KJV). Wherever this word is placed does not really change the meaning of the text. The essence of what Paul is saying is that this thanksgiving is done in prayer, and this act of praying is something Paul always does. This is in line with what Paul encouraged Christians to do, that they should always pray (Colossians 4:2). Therefore, we suggest that “always” qualifies “pray.”