A prayer for the battle – 7th July 2006
Paul has been pouring out his heart for the Ephesian church and we have listened in on both his prayers for them and his advice to them. As the book draws to a close, Paul gives us a glimpse into the cell where he is chained up. Without the slightest bit of self-pity or any sense of feeling sorry for himself, he asks that others might pray for him.
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, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.
Eph 6:19-20
What an amazing request. He is fully aware of the cost of preaching the gospel and speaking about Jesus. He has been paying the price for his boldness in a Roman cell. Yet he asks for others to pray that he might remain fearless and faithful to God’s call.
This is a prayer that is altogether more dangerous to pray.
This is not a prayer that we might be soaked in the river of the love of God. This is not a prayer for still waters. This is a prayer to rise up and go into battle.
Lord, please give me the words to share the good news. When I open my mouth, may words be given to me so that I can make this mystery known. May I declare it fearlessly, whatever the cost.
Do you dare to pray this prayer for yourself or someone else this week? | 