June 07, 2021: SOAP #4204:  Ecclesiastes 4-6; Psalm 18; Ephesians 3

SCRIPTURE:  Ephesians (NIV) 3:12 In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.
13 I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.
14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being,

OBSERVATION: Paul often strings thoughts through several verses.  Here we see that with faith in God we have the privilege of approaching God.  Because (Therefore) we can approach God we should not be discouraged.  Paul was concerned that the difficult times he was going through might be a reason for them to be discouraged.  Not wanting them to be discouraged, what does Paul do?  He prays that they will experience the strengthening ministry of the Holy Spirit. 

APPLICATION:  What am I to do when I see someone discouraged?  I can speak encouraging words to them.  I can give them a testimony of what God has done for me.  But best of all, I can pray for them. 

PRAYER: Holy Spirit, as I encounter people who need your help, anoint me to pray for them.  When I do not know how to pray, pray through me.  Then give me your words to pray.  Encourage them through your mighty presence.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!