Ephesians 6:19-20 “and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.”
God wants us to pray for others. This means we are to put our lives on hold and focus on the life, ministry and circumstance of another. This takes a certain level of maturity. It’s easy to be preoccupied with circumstances that one has trouble imagining the position of another and sensing their need.
Paul was an apostle. He had a large ministry, nearly global. Most of us exist and work in a very defined, specific area. Apostles are big dreamers. Almost like the ceo can see broadly and deeply, so Paul had passions for things we can’t imagine. God wants us to pray for these people.
We can pray better if we can empathize with one’s need. It’s almost as if we are taking it on ourselves. If someone is struggling with their teenager. We can listen to their struggles. We can put ourselves in their shoes. We’ve had problems with our teenagers. We remember the sleepless worry. The pacing in prayer that we’ve done. As we adopt this practice, we will be more effectice intercessors.
Paul was praying for utterance and boldness. Utterance means having the right response come to mind when sharing the gospel. Boldness is having the courage to speak that thought.
We can think of those that need to hear. There are many without Christ. They are living in darkness. Their children are also in darkness. The Lord wants to help them in their hurt. These people aren’t able to help their children spiritually. Paul wants to reach these and wants the right words to say.
We can think of those that need to hear. There are many without Christ. They are living in darkness. Their children are also in darkness. The Lord wants to help them in their hurt. These people aren’t able to help their children spiritually. Paul wants to reach these and wants the right words to say.
Lord, help us to put ourselves into the lives of others and pray for them. Help us to remember to pray for those in spiritual leadership. The ones like Paul that are our generals in the faith.