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Daily Devotions

Ephesians

Ephesians 
Day 
Day 358

"Praying with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints."

Text: Ephesians 6:18

SUPPLICATION FOR ALL THE SAINTS

Paul did not only teach people how to pray, he practised what he preached. He believed in praying for all the saints. His epistles demonstrate this truth. Let us consider the following texts.

1. The Church in Rome (which he had not even visited)

This is what he wrote in his opening remarks to the Church in Rome.

Without ceasing I make mention of you always
in my prayers…
ROMANS 1:9

2. The Church in Ephesus (Paul founded this Church)

Paul offered two deep and meaningful prayers for the Church (Cf. Ephesians 1:15-19; 3:14-21). Let us take note of the following words found in the first prayer.

Therefore I also… do not cease to give thanks for you,
making mention of you in my prayers…
EPHESIANS 1:15, 16

3. The Church in Philippi (Paul founded this church too)

This Church maintained a very close relationship with the apostle Paul. We read the following characteristic words.

I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,
always in every prayer of mine making request for you all
with joy…
PHILIPPIANS 1:3-4

4. The Church in Colosse (Paul did not found this Church)

Despite the fact that Paul did not found this church, he expressed care and concern for them. When he discovered that false teaching threatened the stability of the church, he ministered to them in prayer and also through his epistle writing.

We give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
praying always for you..
COLOSSIANS 1:3

WHY ARE WE ENJOINED TO SUPPLICATE FOR THE SAINTS?

There are many reasons why we need to offer prayers and supplications with all perseverance for the saints. Let us just highlight two of them.

1. Prayer is the chosen means

Prayer is a special means by which God will bless His people. He responds to the prayers and supplications of His children. If His people will not seek Him in prayer and supplication, they suffer unnecessary consequences.

2. Prayer is the proven means

The fact that God has answered many prayers must move our hearts to pray even more diligently. Many needs may be met because we believe in prayer!