No. 330 - Praying in the Spirit

The Prayer of God’s People

Praying in the Spirit

Ephesians 6:18

"Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints." 

Starting Prayer 

Dear Lord, help me to pray always in the Spirit, with perseverance and care for others. Open my heart to Your Word today. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Background 

The book of Ephesians was written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Ephesus. In Chapter 6, Paul speaks about the armour of God, urging believers to be strong in the Lord and stand firm against the evil one. Verse 18, our focus for today, encourages us to pray continually, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and to be vigilant in our prayers, not just for ourselves but for all believers. 

Be Encouraged 

Praying in the Spirit means allowing the Holy Spirit to guide our prayers, through God’s will. It’s not just about saying the right words but connecting deeply with God, letting the Spirit lead us in what to pray for. This kind of prayer is powerful because it aligns our will with God's will. When we pray in the Spirit, we find strength and clarity, especially in challenging times. Just as a soldier is vigilant in battle, we too must be watchful and persistent in prayer, never giving up, knowing that our prayers make a difference. 

Paul also reminds us to pray for others, particularly our fellow believers. When we lift up others in prayer, we share in their burdens and become a source of strength for them. This mutual care and support is vital for the health and growth of the church. Think about how encouraging it is to know someone is praying for you. Let’s be that encouragement for others, praying earnestly and persistently for their needs, and trusting that God hears and answers. 

Application 

Reflect on these verses to enrich today's message:

- Romans 8:26 "Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." 

- 1 Thessalonians 5:17 "Pray without ceasing." 

Invitation 

If you have not yet committed your life to Christ, I encourage you to visit a nearby Church of Christ. Through faith (Hebrews 11:6), repentance from sin (Acts 2:38; 17:30-31), and baptism for the forgiveness of all past sins and your salvation (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38), the Lord will add you to His church. Here, you will continue to learn more about God and put into practice Christ's commandments (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 2:47). Take this step today to begin a life led by the Spirit and rooted in prayer. Share this message with others and encourage them to seek God in prayer as well. 

Concluding Prayer 

Thank You, Lord, for the reminder to pray always in the Spirit. Help me to be watchful and persistent in my prayers, and to remember others in their times of need. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

May the Lord bless your day.

 

Theodore J. Quist 

Evangelist 

Church of Christ 

Abokobi - Accra 

Ghana

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