Ephesians

Ephesians 6:21-22   Tychicus has a purpose as a dear brother and faithful friend.  His job is to share how Paul is doing and encourage the church of Ephesus.  I find it interesting that Paul trusts Tychicus to share about his life.  With all of our privacy laws it's tricky to share these days but here Paul has appointed someone to share and encourage.  Tychicus has a purpose in God's Kingdom.  May each one of us find our purpose in God's Kingdom and fulfill our purpose well.

  Ephesians 6:19-20 Paul is asking for prayer for all Christians but then he get's specific.  Pray for me.  He's been mistreated for the sake of the gospel so it would be easy to quit but instead he asks for prayer. " 19  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,   20  for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should." This is a good prayer.  I'd like it prayed for me and for folks who are Christians in non-Christian countries who are enduring persecution.  It's been good news for the past 2020 years; let's continue to pass it on.

  Ephesians 6:18 Pray and pray a lot. There is a battle going on and the Kingdom needs prayer warriors. Especially pray for the Lord’s people.

Ephesians 6:16-17   Add to the amour a shield of faith.  Remember God is on your side and He will fight for you.  Also remember to protect your mind with the helmet of knowing that Christ died and rose again for you.  Then don't forget to fight back with the sword, which is God's word.  When satan attacked Jesus Jesus responded with God's word, all from the same area of scripture, so I think that was what Jesus was reading for His devotions that day.  Pretty cool eh!  So stay in God's word.

Ephesians 6:14-15 Stand firm with the belt of truth (which happens to hold the rest of the armour on), do what's right with the breastplate of righteousness, and be willing to use your feet and walk away if necessary, for the sake of peace. How the enemy uses lies and gossip; it's important to get to the knowledge of truth so we can stand firm.  It then important to do the right thing so the accuser has nothing to accuse us of.  And if we walk away we must remember the power of prayer and keep praying for the right thing to be accomplished.

Ephesians 6:12-13 This is a powerful section of scripture.  In it we're remind that our struggle is not against flesh and blood.  The evil one will use our relationships so be careful.  Watch out for the lies of the enemy and put on the full armour of God so you can stand firm under the enemy's attacks.  Lord Jesus, please help us to be wise. Thanks for your armour of protection.  Thanks for reminding us to wear it.