◄ What Does Ephesians 6:18 Mean? ►

Multiplied calls to prayer are found throughout Scripture, and many men and women in the pages of the Bible are also found travailing in prayer to God. We are to pray without ceasing, to pray everywhere, and to pray in spirit and truth. We are called to pray for kings and rulers, and also to pray for the saints who are the Body of Christ (all those that are born from above, as children of God). Christ Himself was discovered throughout His earthly life in earnest prayer to His Heavenly Father, and we would do well to take heed of the reason for prayer.

Prayer expresses a need that we are unable to satisfy. It is an acknowledgment that we live in total dependence upon the Lord. The essence of all prayer is an admission of utter helplessness combined with absolute confidence in God to supply all our needs according to His great riches in His great glory. When we live in an attitude of prayer, when we pray without ceasing, we are simply maintaining the ongoing and constant attitude of simple, child-like trust and helpless dependence upon the Father.

To pray in the Spirit is only possible when we are living in unbroken fellowship with the Father, for a life that is living, walking, and praying in spirit and truth is one is submitted to His leading and guidance, for the one that lives in helpless submission and dependent upon the Holy Spirit, is the one that truly prays in the spirit.

Further, we are not to limit our prayers to those things that we consider appropriate, but we are to pray about all things with every kind of prayer, in the same helpless dependence upon God, knowing that He is not only willing and powerful enough to answer all our pleadings but are trusting Him, in His wisdom, to do only that which is best for us.

And how important to be alert and diligent in prayer. Daniel prayed for 21 days continuously, and Christ rose early and retired late to spend time with the Father. We are not limited by times or places, but we should ensure that we pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers in helpless dependence on Him – keeping alert and persevering in prayer for all our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Loving Father, prayer is such a precious gift that You have given to me. Help me to live and pray in an attitude of helpless dependence on You. May I be alert and diligent in every kind of prayer. In Jesus' name I pray, AMEN.