Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, refers to the spiritual battle we each face. As his final admonition, he encourages the Ephesians to “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes” (Eph. 6:11).
Paul was familiar with the challenges and struggles of spiritual battle. Whether being stoned, beaten, or snuck out of town to avoid another flogging, Paul’s faith was tested often. Even by writing the Ephesian letter from prison, we affirm that Paul was no stranger to spiritual battle.
At times, we hear Paul reflect on the weariness and weaknesses he felt in spiritual battle... Know what helped him get through? What a key source of his strength was? The prayers of others.
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should. (Eph. 6:18-20)
At the end of the description of the spiritual armor (Eph. 6:11-17), Paul reminds his readers of the importance of prayer—the glue that holds the armor together in the midst of the battle.
Jesus affirmed this truth as well. Throughout His time on earth, we see Him place a priority on the time in communion with His Father. He would even spend all night in prayer (Luke 6:12). Jesus was keenly aware of the struggle that came with every spiritual battle. On the cusp of one of the biggest spiritual battles He faced, not only did He spend the night in prayer, but He also asked his inner circle to keep watch with Him and pray (Matt. 26:36-38).
No matter what we face, like Paul and like Jesus, we are strengthened in the spiritual battle when accompanied in prayer. It is an important part we play in the spiritual battles of others.
Thank you for being a prayer warrior with us! Please know that we join with you in prayer as well.