I Pray, it is essential.

Many have brought their interpretation as to what the Apostle means when he says, “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” Ephesians 6 v 18

What we know is Paul has been thinking about the Holy Spirit and His help in our lives throughout this letter, 16 times actually and this is the last time before he closes.

He is there helping us to submit to one another; helping us in our relationships, in our home and work.

Over the last 8 days I chose to write a prayer regarding ‘the armour of God’ because it is only through prayer that we put these items on. Who helps us in those prayers? Of course, in every aspect of our lives the Helper is helping. None more so than in prayer.

I think that’s what Paul is saying. The Holy Spirit alongside us, helping us to pray.

The Message says, “In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.”

So …

1. If you are praying for you then pray for who you are more than what you can get.
2. If you are praying for others then pray with your eyes open so that you give a helping hand where you can.
3. If prayer enables you to get through any occasion then pray every day and all the time, don’t give up.

“Poverty-stricken as the Church is today in many things, she is most stricken here, in the place of prayer. We have many organizers, but few agonizers; many players and payers, few pray-ers; many singers, few clingers; lots of pastors, few wrestlers; many fears, few tears; much fashion, little passion; many interferers, few intercessors; many writers, but few fighters. Failing here, we fail everywhere.” (Leonard Ravenhill)

The greatest need for the Church today is not to move into the digital world but to move into the world with prayer.

The world is not waiting for the Church to become modernised and slick in front of a camera but it is waiting for the Church to discover the ancient paths of being in front of God.

Great communication is only successful if there has been communication with a great God.