Praying by Precept & ExampleSample

The "What" and "How" of Prayer

"Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints." (Ephesians 6:18 KJV)

We have explored the unique nature of prayer in the faith of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is not defined by receiving answers—God gives liberally to all without finding fault. Instead, the ministry of prayer is rooted in understanding God’s plan and purposes on earth: "Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth." (1 Timothy 2:4 KJV). God’s desire is the salvation of souls and their growth in the knowledge of His truth.

Having studied the "why" of prayer—that it makes God’s power available to accomplish His will—we now turn our attention to the "what" and "how" of prayer.

The "What" of Prayer
The Scriptures emphasize specific prayer focuses within the ministry of prayer. These prayers center on the advancement of the Gospel, the salvation of men, and the spiritual growth of believers. Below are key examples of what to pray for:

1. Boldness to Preach the Gospel
   "Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit…and for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the Gospel." (Ephesians 6:18-19 KJV). Prayer is vital for empowering preachers and yourself to speak the Word of God boldly.
2. Open Doors for the Word
   "Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving; withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ (Colossians 4:2-4 KJV). We pray for opportunities to proclaim the Gospel and for hearts to be receptive to its truth.
3. Deliverance for Preachers
   "Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified…and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men." (2 Thessalonians 3:1-2 KJV). Prayer provides divine protection for those proclaiming the Gospel.
4. Spiritual Growth of Believers
   "And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ." (Philippians 1:9-11 KJV) Prayer fosters the growth of believers in love, wisdom, and righteousness.
5. Knowledge of God’s Will
   "For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing." (Colossians 1:9-10 KJV). We pray for believers to know God’s will and live lives that reflect His glory.

The "How" of Prayer

The apostles taught that prayer must be conducted in a specific manner:

1. Pray in the Spirit
   "Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit." (Ephesians 6:18 KJV)
   To "pray in the Spirit" is to pray in tongues. Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 14:14: "For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful." Praying in tongues is unique to the faith of the Lord Jesus Christ and is a sign of those who believe. Mark 16:17 declares: "And these signs shall follow them that believe; In My name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues."
2. Pray with Perseverance
   "Praying always…and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints." (Ephesians 6:18 KJV). Effective prayer requires persistence and vigilance. We do not give up but remain steadfast in interceding for God’s purposes.
3. Pray with Thanksgiving
   "Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving." (Colossians 4:2 KJV). Gratitude is essential in prayer, as it acknowledges God’s faithfulness and aligns our hearts with His.

The Unique Role of Prayer in Christ

Prayer in the faith of the Lord Jesus Christ is both a privilege and a responsibility. We pray because we recognize that it makes power available for God’s purposes: the salvation of souls and the advancement of the Gospel. We also pray uniquely in the Spirit, utilizing the ability to speak in tongues.

Reflection: Does your prayer life align with God’s purposes for salvation and spiritual growth? Are you persistent and Spirit-led in your prayers?

Confession: I commit to the ministry of prayer, aligning my prayers with God’s will for salvation and spiritual growth. I pray in the Spirit, making power available for the advancement of the Gospel and the glory of God.

Action Point: Set aside time to pray specifically for the salvation of souls, the boldness of preachers, and the spiritual growth of believers. Practice praying in the Spirit, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide your intercession.