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

The Bible tells us that the effectual, fervent prayers of a righteous man availeth much. (KJV James 5:16b) Prayer is what holds our spiritual armor together, especially when it is steady and sincere. Through faithful prayer, we find the strength to endure life challenges with patience, comfort, and peace.

Ephesians 6:18 gives us three conditions for offering effectual prayer:

First, pray always. Prayer is our intimate conversation with the Lord. It is through constant and unceasing prayer that we receive the divine help from our constant companion, the Holy Spirit. He guides us in all understanding, brings us closer to God, keeps us sober-minded, and leads us in the truth. (KJV I Thessalonians 5:17) tells us to “Pray without ceasing.”

Second, pray in the Spirit. Spiritual men and women must walk in the fullness of the Holy Spirit by allowing Him to guide our thoughts and actions, empowering us to remain faithful and focused on the divine will of God. “And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.” (KJV Acts 4:31.)

Third, pray for all saints. Our petitions are not self-centered, but on behalf of all those in need, especially praying for the brethren. Likewise, our prayers must be steadfast and strategic. The Apostle Paul gives us a great example as we note his prayer for the Colossians: “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;” (KJV Colossians 1:9.)

Prayer serves as heavy artillery in spiritual warfare. Therefore, it is imperative that we continue in prayer for spiritual growth, discernment, and strength, not only for ourselves, but for all of God’s beloved children. 

Above all, we must pray for the lost. God is longsuffering and desires that all men have the right to eternal life. “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” (KJV 2 Peter 3:9.)

My friends, like a watchful, efficient soldier, stay on guard. It is to the enemy’s advantage if he strips us of our spiritual weapons. His desire is to leave us vulnerable and defenseless, with annihilation appearing certain, keeping us from the most personal and soul-searching act to God that we possess… PRAYER!

But we are more than conquerors through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let’s be prayer warriors who are steadfast and vigilant before God’s Throne of grace. There we receive His loving protection, mercy, and strength for the battle ahead. “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” (KJV John 15:7.)

May God’s strength and peace be with us all!