Ephesians 6:18

"Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty. To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God's consecrated people)." Ephesians 6:18

Paul has left the discussion of armor, however, we are still in the context of war-fighting and being prepared to stand in "the evil day". Still in this war-fighting thought, we can consider how vital the lines of communication have always been in war-fighting, and how perfect this verse fits with being armed of God, standing, and fighting the enemy. Smoke signals, Pony Express, Radios, and today's cell phone and many other forms of communication play a critical role in the success of battle. Prayer is our channel to The Great Commander and Chief. But, notice, Paul says to pray at all times, "in the Spirit". Capitalized, referring to The Holy Spirit.

Praying in the Spirit can be praying in "tongues"... but it is more about being "one" in spirit with God through the Holy Spirit. The church is split on the meaning of praying in the Spirit, though we are reminded that God's ways are not our ways, and that we cannot control God, or manipulate the things of God. Praying in the Spirit can be deep groaning... intense weeping, complete silence, and unexplainable passing of communications... but it is about being able to hear and speak with God "IN SPIRIT". Praying in the Spirit comes with great passion. The LOST CAN REACH THE SPIRIT IN PRAYER OUT OF A SINCERE PASSION TO RECEIVE GOD. The new Christian can pray now in the Spirit out of a new-found PASSION... But, ultimately our love for God and desire enough to meet with Him in Spirit, will make it easier to pray in the Spirit, as Paul refers to here. Praying in the spirit is not widely taught like it should be in the church, but a with Passion for God, He will teach us. Amen?

Paul, then adds, "To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God's consecrated people)." Along with prayer there must be a heightened sense of expectancy... God is listening to us and we need to expect to see Him answer those prayers. Strong purpose and perseverance, again come from a compassionate prayer. Our prayers cannot always be for ourselves, but for "all the saints". We are not a bunch of ones... but "An Army Of One". Amen?

Let's pick up with Ephesians verse 6:19 next time.

I love you.