by Susan Litwiller, MNC., Ed.S., MBA, CCNI Director of Education
We are reminded in Ephesians 6:18 — “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.”
For my fellow ‘dig in the word’ Bible readers, the Greek “with all prayer” (dia pases proseuches): is translated with all kinds of prayer and “always” (en panti kairo): the word (en) would be better translated “at”; the word (panti) means each and every, and it is an all-encompassing word that embraces everything, including the smallest and most minute of details; the word (kairo) is the Greek word for times or seasons; when used in one phrase as in Ephesians 6:18.
Think of that. All kinds of prayer, each and every…everything, small or big, in all seasons. That’s how important our prayers land on the Father’s heart.
Prayer of Authority (or the Prayer of Faith) – is taken from the Greek word aiteo, and we find this word used approximately 80 times all over the New Testament. Jesus Himself used it in John 15:7 (If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. ) to describe asking God for something based on His Word abiding in our hearts. The word aiteo really means to demand or to command that something be done.
The use of the word aiteo — describing the prayer of authority — tells us that when we know and are confident of what the Bible says, we don’t have to be sheepish when we pray. We can be confident, bold, and frank. In fact, we can be so direct that we can nearly demand and command what needs to be done based on God’s Word.
It is important to note that we must be confident and know what the Word of God says so that we can align our prayers, ask specifically for the promises, and trust that we have the authority given to us by the finished work on the cross. When we stand firm on the promises, and offer the prayers boldly with faith, we will indeed call down the power from on high and see those mountains move.
Our Father loves to commune with us through prayer, sharing his heart. As Proverbs 25:14 tells us, “The secret of the Lord is for those who fear Him, And He will make them know His covenant.” I don’t know about you, but I want to hear His secrets!
Let’s believe boldly that we have the authority to command and demand God’s promises over our families, businesses, and lives. If His Word says over 80 times that we can, by all means, let’s take Him at His Word.
Please send along any prayer requests and praise reports for your coaching practices to direducation@christiancoaches.
Susan Litwiller, Ed.S, MBA is a Certified Master NeuroCoach, Strengths Champion Coach, and a John Maxwell Team Training Coach. She is the Director of Education for CCNI and facilitates our Evening Women in Coaching Community group which meets on the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 8pm EDT. She can be reached at direducation@christiancoaches.com
