The Warrior’s Resource
February 6, 2023
Commentary
Prayer is the energy that enables Christians to engage in the battle of life. We can never fight this battle in our own power, no matter how strong we may think we are. Remember that many men greater than we have fallen before us. Paul tells us how to pray in order to defeat Satan (vv. 18-20).
Pray always – A Christian should never say “Lord we come into thy presence” because we have never left His presence. We need to live in a constant attitude of prayer.Pray with all prayer – Our prayers need to include; confession, adoration, thanksgiving, petition, intercession and supplication. Just asking for things for yourself is selfish.Pray in the Spirit – Notice that it does not say for the spirit but in the spirit. It is the Holy Spirit that prays in us, through us and for us.Watch and Pray – This means to keep on the alert.Keep on praying – The word perseverance simply means “to stick to it and not quit.” Many of us quit praying just before God gives the victory.Pray for all saints – As Christians we are part of a great family and we need to pray for the other members of the family. If Paul needed prayers you can be sure that you and I need them.Paul closes his letter by saying, I am sending Tychicus to tell you how I am doing and to let you know I’m praying for you (vv. 21-24).
Application
Who do I know that needs my prayers and special encouragement? Why not pray for them right now?
Ephesians 6:18– 24 (NET)
18 With every prayer and petition, pray at all times in the Spirit, and to this end be alert, with all perseverance and petitions for all the saints. 19 Pray for me also, that I may be given the right words when I begin to speak —that I may confidently make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may be able to speak boldly as I ought to speak.
21 Tychicus, my dear brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will make everything known to you, so that you too may know about my circumstances, how I am doing. 22 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know our circumstances and that he may encourage your hearts.
23 Peace to the brothers and sisters, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.
Illustration: God’s Answering Machine
What if God had an answering machine? Imagine praying and hearing this: “Thank you for calling My Father’s House. Please select one of the following four options:
Press 1 for requests.Press 2 for thanksgiving.Press 3 for complaints.For all other inquiries, press 4.”What if God used the familiar excuse: “All of the angels are helping other customers right now. Please stay on the line. Your call will be answered in the order received.” (Source unknown)