Through the Bible - Numbers 13-14
Good morning,
There are many today, who call themselves Christians, that do not believe that there is a devil, or evil spirits that work against us.
Today's passage in Ephesians 6 tells us something quite different. Paul instructs us to put on the "full armor of God" and to fight this battle in the power of His might(v.10).
Having put on this armor he calls for us to pray always (v.18).
Today's verses follow that:
Eph 6:19-20 and (pray) for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. NKJV
Paul is writing this epistle from prison, but notice what he prays for. He's not asking for prayer for deliverance from prison, for his personal well being or comfort. He is praying for the strength and courage to continue to proclaim the gospel as an ambassador for Christ, carrying His message, doing His will.
We may be struggling with difficult situations in regards to our health, work, relationships and it is natural to pray for deliverance, for relief in these instances. But can you remember the last time, if ever, that you prayed like Paul, that you may be a stronger witness for Christ in the midst of the circumstance while you feel chained in your surroundings with no relief in sight?
It's quite a challenge but one that Paul and that God has called us to do.
John Calvin writes, "Christ says that those are happy, who are not only prepared to endure their own afflictions, but to take a share in the afflictions of others - who assist the wretched - who willingly take part with those who are in distress."
Are you willing to go the "extra mile" in these kind of circumstances?
For additional reading go to Matthew 5:3-12.
In Christ,
Mike
Eph 6:10-24
The Whole Armor of God
10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints — 19 and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
A Gracious Greeting
21 But that you also may know my affairs and how I am doing, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will make all things known to you; 22 whom I have sent to you for this very purpose, that you may know our affairs, and that he may comfort your hearts.
23 Peace to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.
NKJV
No comments:
Post a Comment