In Ephesians 6:18-20 Paul urges the Ephesian Christians to be "praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints-and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak."  Now, Paul is doing just fine these days and no longer requires our prayers.  But, he reminded us to pray for all the saints, which we should be actively doing every day.  We need to pray for each other that "utterance may be given" to us, that we may open our mouths "boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel", that we may speak boldly, as we ought to speak. Colossians 4:2-4 is very similar as it reads:  "Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving; meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains, that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak."    However, here he adds:  "Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time.  Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one."

These scriptures come together to give us a very important message.  In these times, we should remember that we are here to carry out the works that the Lord has prepared for us to walk in them (Ephesians 2:10).  And, as we go we are to make disciples of all the nations (Matthew 28:19).  So, as you and I go, remember to pray for those who have not trusted God, that they might be saved.  And, pray for each other.  Pray for Christians in the Middle East and Africa who are facing genocide at the hands of ruthless men.  Pray for the saints around the world who carry the message of Jesus wherever they go.  Pray for the other Christians at work, however many they may be.  Pray for your church and for your pastor.  Pray for the kids who have trusted the Lord, as they go to school daily in a place that is openly and unapologetically hostile to God, His Word, the truth and those who bear His name.  As of yesterday, I would also ask you to pray and to continue to pray for Ted Cruz.  He stood before the world and clearly and definitively declared that He owes and trusts his life to Jesus, and then announced his candidacy for the presidency.  The Bible and recent history tell us that he, his wife and daughters will be subjected to the most vile personal attacks imaginable because of the stand that he has taken.  Pray for their protection, strength and that their hearts and minds would be guarded.  I don't think I say this enough, but I'm proud to be counted along with you among the saints who have been placed in these days by the Lord who ordained them and called us to be His ambassadors in them.