24 x 7 x 365
Ephesians 6:18-24
Ephesians 6:18 (NLT)
Pray at all times and on every occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all Christians everywhere.
The Frequency of Prayer
At all times
Not just at church
Not just at the dinner table
Not just before bedtime
Every occasion
As you encounter circumstances
As you encounter people
Praying in Power
Provided by the Holy Spirit
Prompting
In accordance with God’s will
The power of prayer
Not based on eloquence or skill
Based on the power and faithfulness of God
Who Are You Praying For?
Paying attention
Notice what is going on around you
Take an interest in others lives
Praying for each other
One of the greatest sources of encouragement
Adds “spiritual” depth to relationships
Carrying burdens
Sharing joys
Prayer partnerships
Ephesians 6:19 (NLT)
And pray for me, too. Ask God to give me the right words as I boldly explain God’s secret plan that the Good News is for the Gentiles, too.
Empowering the Preacher
Word power
A useful vessel
Choosing the right words
Connect with the people
Clear and understandable
Boldness
To say what needs to be said
Overcome fear and anxiety
The message is for everyone
Ephesians 6:20 (NLT)
I am in chains now for preaching this message as God’s ambassador. But pray that I will keep on speaking boldly for him, as I should.
Under All Circumstances
Paul’s circumstance
In chains for preaching
Deprived of freedom
Paul’s prayer request
Not for bail, pardon or acquittal
For continued boldness
Speaking for Jesus
No matter what the personal cost might be
Ephesians 6:21-22 (NLT)
Tychicus, a much loved brother and faithful helper in the Lord’s work, will tell you all about how I am getting along. [22] I am sending him to you for just this purpose. He will let you know how we are, and he will encourage you.
Reporting the Outcomes
Paul sent Tychius
To give updates
To tell of the work
To encourage
Talk about what God is doing
To see where God is moving
To encourage others
To strengthen the faith
Yourself
Others
Ephesians 6:23-24 (NLT)
May God give you peace, dear brothers and sisters, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. [24] May God’s grace be upon all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.
Experiencing God’s Grace
Not a religious practice
Many settle for simply dating Jesus
An intimate relationship
Jesus loved you enough to die for you
His desire is that you would fall in love with him
24 x 7 x 365
When you fall in love with Jesus, you’ll never run out of things to talk about.
**Powerpoint available on request