Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, Ephesians 6:19 NIV
Prayer is an essential part of our Christian lives. We pray for ourselves, asking God for strength, understanding and wisdom. We may pray for God’s favor and other things that we desire. Also, we pray for other people.
Sometimes We Need Support
In this passage Paul is asking others to pray for him. He often found himself in difficult circumstances and felt the need to appeal to his supporters for prayer. In verse eighteen, Paul had encouraged the church to pray in the Spirit. A prisoner at the time, he knew he needed prayerful support and the power of the Holy Spirit when presenting the gospel to his accusers.
Paul was not looking for comfort. Notice that he wanted to present fearlessly. He needed to present the gospel with boldness. Paul was living the gospel with his actions but needed to share the good news with words as well.
In Luke 12:11-12 Jesus said. “When they bring you before the synagogues, the rulers, and the authorities, don’t be anxious how or what you will answer, or what you will say; for the Holy Spirit will teach you in that same hour what you must say. WEB” In this same situation, Paul requested the church to pray that he would have the Holy Spirit inspired words that Christ had promised.
Thanks to people like Paul the mystery of the gospel spread far and wide. We need the same boldness now to present the good news to those who do not yet know it. The Holy Spirit will give those words to the faithful today just as they were given in the past.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the good news of Jesus Christ and the comfort received through the power of the Holy Spirit. Give me boldness and the words I need to be effective when sharing the gospel with others. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Perfect Peace
