A note from our Pastor:

”Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;”

Ephesians 6:18

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

In the prior verses, the Apostle sets forth the armor of God which is the graces of Christ given unto his people. The graces of righteousness, mercy, and salvation. In our study verse this week the Apostle moves to the subject of prayer but this subject is still a continuation of the thoughts regarding the armor of God.

In a natural sense, if a Roman citizen was outfitted for the first time with all of the required armor it would be quite the awkward situation. Once fitted with the weighty breastplate, the belt with sword and other tools hanging from it, the sandals with spikes and leg guards, and a heavy helmet the act of walking much less marching, carrying a shield, and fighting would be quite difficult. The Roman soldier had to go through drills and exercises in order to be efficient in using the armor of the empire.

In similar fashion, the inexperienced child of God cannot be expected to be ready to fully use the armor of God when they are a new disciple. While a soldier drills to gain experience, the child of God prays. It is through their own experiences, through their own prayer, and through the prayers for the community of believers on their behalf that a child of God gains experience in using the armor of God in their daily battles.

Thus, the Apostle in our study verse this week provides two instructions. First, the disciples are to be praying always and in all forms. The disciple should be praying at regular times, praying in the midst of difficulties, praying when the heart is moved, and praying when things are joyful. The disciple should pray prayers of thanksgiving, prayers of asking, and prayers of reconciliation. All of these prayers, in all of these moments, are teaching the child of God to use their armor.

The other instruction, is to consistently be praying for other disciples. The community of believers should be observant of one another and the needs of the disciples. Prayers for one another should be as consistent as prayers for oneself. This continuation of prayer makes all disciples within the community of believers stronger.

Prayers are the way in which the child of God becomes more skilled in using the armor which God has provided.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah