Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. (Ephesians 6:18-20)

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Paul had just finished a description of the wonderful Armor of God. We must put on this armor as our defense against the rulers, authorities, and spiritual forces of evil that we face on a daily basis. Then, in these verses, he encourages us to pray. Prayer is truly a gift from God. It is our personal conversations with the Father. It is a beautiful time of praise, repentance, petition, and thanksgiving.

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Paul also used the word "supplication," which by definition means to beg for something earnestly and humbly. What was it that Paul desired that he would use this strong word? He wanted us to be reminded to pray for each other, to bring others, their concerns and needs to the One who loves us.

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What is so amazing is that he recognized his own need for prayer, but his prayer was not what we would expect it to be. At this time he was in prison for preaching the gospel, yet he did not desire prayers to be released from the chains that held him captive. His desire was to be bold to tell of his own personal experience of God's forgiveness. He did not accept his situation as an excuse but a greater opportunity to reach more people who needed to hear.

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Our prayer life should be like Paul's, desiring to be so burdened for our unsaved relative, friend, neighbor, co-worker or man on the street that we beg earnestly for their salvation. And just like Paul, ask God to use us to boldly share the gospel with them.

 

Questions to Ponder: Will we be like Paul and not use our circumstances to keep us from sharing with the unsaved person? Will we commit to ask God to open our hearts and mouths to boldly share our story?

 

Prayer: Father, I thank You for my salvation. Without Your redeeming sacrifice and love I would be without hope. I realize there is a world in desperate need of this hope. Make me aware of those I come in contact with that need to hear about Your love. Cause me to be ready to share how they can have this hope, too. Amen.