Last week we focused on meditation/memorization/mobilization. We discussed the full armor of God. They are… belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, feet shod with the gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, sword of the Spirit which is the word of God. The first five are defensive, and the last one is for offense. But Paul makes it very clear that overriding all of this is prayer. The three M’s have to be bathed in prayer. That assures that we are being Spirit led. He is the one that provides the power and the victories.
Here’s what the Spirit says through Paul. “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” (Eph. 6.18-20).
If you and I are to take our mission for Christ and his kingdom seriously, it is imperative that prayer of every nature becomes paramount. Paul asked for prayer from the Corinthians and I’m sure from all the other churches that he met with over the years. He knew he desperately needed it. And they all knew that Paul was praying for them without ceasing. He was conforming himself to the image of Christ while he was here on earth.
Just like Paul, we need our prayer teams to be supporting us daily in our walk and mission. That would include family members who are believers. Also, a core group at your church or in your circle of influence. Besides my family, I am privileged to be a part of three specific groups that are dedicated to prayer for one another. Just today, John Roper sent out a request as he was leaving for a mission trip to an unnamed country off the coast of Miami.
Reflect on Jesus’ words: “Truly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them” (Mt. 18.18-20). And it doesn’t mean you have to be in the same room, but gathered together of one mind in prayer.
“Prayer is that mightiest of all weapons that created natures can wield.” Martin Luther. So, put on your armor daily and pray without ceasing.
Note: At the request of my younger daughter, Evelyn, and encouraged by my older daughter, Rebecca, and my wife, Joanne, two years ago I wrote a book entitled ‘Victory Through Prayer!’ Email me if you want some copies. P.S. Let me know if there is anything you would like me to pray about. And I would covet your prayers for my family and the ministry for which God has entrusted me. Blessings, Bill