Prayer That MattersSample

The Secret Power for Effective Ministry

Read Ephesians 6:18-20

"What should I pray for?"

That's a very good question. It's a shame that so much of what we've learned about prayer in the past has been focused on asking for things we want, removing a problem or begging God to do things that he's already done.

Paul actually gives you a truckload of things to pray for. This sample in Ephesians 6 is typical.

You pray in the Spirit. You can make all kinds of prayers and requests. But here's the kicker: You pray mostly for others.

You pray for those who teach the gospel – that words may be given them so they can fearlessly make known this awesome mystery. This is so important that Paul asked for it twice in this passage – and he mentions it in several of his letters.

Paul also modeled for us how to pray for each other. You pray that your fellow children of God be enlightened in order to know the hope to which God has called us (Ephesians 1:18-19). You pray that your fellow saints' love abounds in knowledge and depth of insight (Philippians 1:9-11). You ask God to fill people with the knowledge of his will (Colossians 1:9). And so on.

This kind of prayer is about ministry, pure and simple. There is no selfishness in these requests. Rather, when you pray like this, your eyes are opened to the pressing needs in the world around you.

The more you understand about faith, hope and love, the more you’re moved by the Spirit to engage those around you. He actually delivers the solution they need through you. This is one of the most powerful aspects of your relationship with Jesus.

Jesus wants to do ministry through you and me! Think about that. Really, this is more awesome than words can describe.