June 9 Join in Prayer

Ephesians 18b-20 With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. 19 Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.
 
PAUL continues on from his teaching to pray in the Spirit. As you have in mind the Spirit is your helper in prayer, here he points us to reasons to pray.
    First, pray with “all the saints”. Remember that “saints” is the early church’s designation of anyone who is saved in faith to confess Christ as Lord. “Saints” was a reference to being set apart and made holy in Jesus’ blood. Calling one “saint” did not mean he was holy as in sinless. But it meant he was made holy by Jesus’ atoning blood. In effect, a true saint is one prepared to meet the holy God. Paul says to pray for each other. Pray with the church. Prayer is a means of unity and fellowship within the church. You know of many petitions and praises we pray for those in the church. Be mindful to do this on a regular basis.
    One way to do so is to sit with other saints in a small group to pray through a church’s directory. You can gather on a regular basis to pray for a certain number of saints each week. Obviously, you won’t know everyone’s specific blessings, desires and needs. But you can always pray such words as Ephesians 3:14-19, pray for their faith journey, pray for their protection from temptation and pray for their relationship with the one God to be one with him.
    Then Paul reminds the Ephesians to pray for him. This is not self-serving pride, but this is humility and submission to confess, “I need prayer!” Paul is a servant-hearted leader who knows he needs the Spirit’s power to do his work. Jesus ministered in the Spirit’s power. Why would it be any different for any pastor or church leader today?
    True pastors, teachers and evangelists are “ambassadors in chains”. They must be chained to the true gospel, so they can faithfully represent Jesus to all the saints God has chosen for them to serve. Diligent prayer for Jesus’ ambassadors will strengthen them to be good shepherds.
    As you see this urging to prayer, let me ask, “Are you a church member who refuses to tell her church, ‘Pray for me.’” Are you concerned others will see you as weak or even broken at times? Let it go. Submit to prayer. Also, be eager to tell of the ways God is blessing your life. Be thankful for your salvation! Let people know you rejoice in the Lord.
    Scripture is very easy to understand as it teaches us about prayer. Be earnest to pray in the Spirit for yourself, all the saints, and church leaders. This is the Lord’s command.
 
Prayer: Father in Heaven, guard your church here on earth. Stir our hearts to pray for one another and for our leaders. In Jesus’ name, amen.