Power Source
Opening Prayer
Father God, I join now with Jesus’ disciples to ask, “Lord, teach us to pray!” (Luke 11:1). Thank You!
Read Ephesians 1:15-23
[15] For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, [16] I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. [17] I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. [18] I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, [19] and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength [20] he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, [21] far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. [22] And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, [23] which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. All rights reserved throughout the world. Used by permission of International Bible Society.
Reflect
What does Paul pray that they may know?How can we best pray for others? We feel we should have graduated beyond the child’s “God bless mommy and daddy,” but often it is hard to know what to pray. Paul’s prayer for the members of the churches he had visited is breathtaking in its scope. It challenges us, when we pray for others, to: Give thanks (16). God has made us to live with others and we should thank God for those whose lives are a blessing to us. Pray regularly (16). Sometimes we are too casual or neglectful in prayer. Bringing others before God is an important part of our relationship. Ask boldly (17-19). We long to be closer to God; we should be asking that for those we know, too. We pray in Christ’s name knowing that he has the power and authority to answer (22). Paul reminds us that the power which God gives is the same power that raised Jesus from the dead (19,20)–an amazing thought! Prayer may not be easy, but with such great resources available to us it is worth it.
Apply
Pray for others today using vs. 16-19 as a basis. How can this passage help you in your praying?
Closing prayer
Lord Jesus, You have all power and authority. I offer You my prayers trusting that You will answer as is best.
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