Verse of the Day for July 27

After the long description of armour, the helmet and the sword, Paul does not add another piece. He adds a way of wearing all of it: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit.

Then comes a small, honest request. And for me. The apostle who wrote so much of the New Testament asks the church to pray for him. And he names exactly what he lacks: that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly.

Paul wrote this from prison, an ambassador in chains, as he says a verse later. You might expect him to ask for release. He asks for words, and for courage to say them. He admits that boldness does not come naturally even to him.

That is what an honest answer in prayer often looks like. Not a list of needs dressed up to sound spiritual, but the real thing. I am afraid to speak. I need words. Please pray for me. It takes humility to say that to the people you lead.

Tomorrow, when someone at work or in your fellowship asks how they can pray for you, tell them the true thing. Not the polite version. Paul did, and the church has been praying with him ever since.

Telling people your real prayer request is a kind of courage.

Prayer is not one more piece of armour; it is how the armour is worn.