Ephesians 6:18 (NLT)
18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.
Paul encourages the believers in Ephesus to pray against the spiritual warfare they face by praying as often as possible. He tells them to pray for all believers seeking and asking for God's favors to abound in those seeking to do God's will. Following this verse Paul says, "And pray for me, too. Ask God to give me the right words so I can boldly explain God's mysterious plan that the Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike. I am in chains now, still preaching this message as God's ambassador. So pray that I will keep on speaking boldly for him, as I should" Paul knew he needed the prayers of others.
Prayer is something that should be taken seriously. It is something to be done when there is a need, an occasion for celebration, when one is looking for hope or there is need to fellowship with our Lord. While we should have the mindset of prayer without ceasing we still have the duties of our perspective place in this world where God has placed us. Prayer can be many things: public or private; in a group or in solitude; spontaneous or planned. In our prayers we should confess our sins. We should ask for grace and mercy, not just for ourselves, but others. There is prayer offered in times of need, but our moments of happiness and thanksgiving should also be shared with the Lord. Our prayer should acknowledge God and our Savior for what they have done in our lives. The book of Acts tells us, "Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him." So make sure we pray for others who are facing trials and tribulations.
Dear most gracious and loving Heavenly Father,
Lord you have placed us here in this world for your purpose to serve and honor you. Father we pray our lives would reflect the future hope of life we have with you in heaven. Lord I pray for the many believers who have needs; some which are common to all and some which are unique. Lord for each person I ask their need would be examined and with your gracious loving mercy respond to their needs according to your will. Provide hope where hope is needed. Father God, provide mercy and grace to those who have fallen away from you and let your love pull them back close to you. Thank you for the salvation you have provided through your son Jesus. Lord thank you for the forgiveness of sin. Father you know our hearts and the secret places where we hide the things we don't want examined; but examine us Lord and let us confess with joy our sin knowing it is forgiven. Lord let us learn to forgive as you have forgiven us. Let us live holy lives pleasing to you; but when we fail let us acknowledge our weakness and find glory in your strength. Lord keep us from the temptation of sin and lead us towards a life that honors you. Lord you are mighty, great, awesome, powerful and can do beyond our expectations or wisdom. Thank you Lord for hearing our prayers we commit them to you.
In the precious name of your son Jesus Christ,
Amen
