November 6, 2024

Ephesians 6.19 (NIV)

Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel.

Typically, we try to fight spiritual battles more with song lyrics and Francis Chan quotes than with the truth and knowledge of Scripture.*

Some of the scariest words ever spoken to me are, “I remember what you said about _____.” I have the little-known gift of “speaking with authority.” I can sound like an expert on things that I know nothing about. In my mind’s ears, I sound like I’m merely speculating but to others’ ears, I must sound like someone worth quoting! That’s why Paul’s prayer request really speaks for me. If I’m going to sound like an expert, then perhaps I should become one.

If I were to pray this prayer, I believe God’s answer would be along the lines of, “These commandments that I give you . . . are to be upon your heart.” (Deuteronomy 6.6) He might tell me to impress them upon my children, to talk about them at home, when I travel, when I lie down and when I get up. He might suggest that I post them on my mirror and my refrigerator and the walls of my house. (Paraphrasing Deuteronomy 6.7–9) If God’s word is going to come out of my mouth, it has to be in my mind and my heart first.

Knowing the Word may enable us to speak with some degree of confidence but if Paul had to pray for fearlessness then surely we have the same need. God has already provided for this contingency as well:  “Be strong and courageous . . . for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31.6)

We need to be better equipped so that when someone asks about our faith, we can do more than merely refer the question to the church’s pastoral staff.*