The Engine of the Armor: Understanding "All Prayer"

The Engine of the Armor: Understanding "All Prayer"

In Ephesians 6, the Apostle Paul famously describes the Armor of God. He lists the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, and the shield of faith. But many people stop reading before they get to the most important part—the power source that holds the armor together.

In Ephesians 6:18, we are commanded to be:

“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.”

But what does that actually look like in our daily lives? Let’s break it down.

1. The Divine "Supply"

The word supplication simply means a petition or an earnest request. Why does Paul mention this immediately after the armor? Because putting on the Armor of God is a daunting task for our weak flesh. We cannot be righteous, truthful, or faithful on our own strength.

We must come to God in prayer and ask for the “supply” of His Spirit. Just as Psalm 4:1 says, “thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress,” God provides the spiritual capacity we lack. We don't just "put on" armor; we pray for the strength to wear it.

2. Prayer as a Watchtower

The second part of the verse tells us to "watch" with all perseverance. This is a call to vigilance. We have a fearsome enemy who prowls around, looking for a gap in our defenses or a moment of distraction. Jesus echoed this warning in the Garden of Gethsemane:

“Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.” (Mark 14:38)

Prayer keeps us sober. It keeps our eyes open to the snares of the devil that we might otherwise miss while distracted by the "cares of this life."

3. Fighting for the Family

Finally, Paul reminds us that we aren't fighting this battle alone. We are to pray “for all saints.” As we look out for our own souls, we must also look out for our brothers and sisters in Christ. We are called to intercede for them, asking the Lord to supply them with the strength they need to stand firm. When one member of the body is strengthened through prayer, the whole body becomes a more formidable force against evil.

Standing Together

The forces of evil are real, but the power available to us through the Spirit is greater. Let’s not just admire the armor—let's activate it through a life of constant, fervent, and watchful prayer.

Who can you lift up in "supplication" today? Reach out to a brother or sister and let them know you are standing with them in prayer.