Witness by Praying

"For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, fro, whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named" (Ephesians 3:14-15).

Paul was kneeling before the Father.  No matter that a Roman guard was in the room, perhaps even chained to the prisoner; no matter whether the guard was scoffer or brother.  Paul was on his knees. 

You know, seeing someone pray has great impact!  I will never forget one instance when I was a student and had been sent with a message to the president of the student body.  Knocking briefly, I rudely burst into the girl’s room and found her at prayer.  The sight of this beautiful girl, unashamedly bowing her knees to the Lord Jesus Christ, had a profound effect on me.  I was somehow angry with her because she made me feel awkward, and yet her very body language preached an eloquent sermon of commitment that I badly needed to hear!  I would not have listened to her words, but I could not ignore her message.

We do not always have a quiet room to run to.  Sometimes the most important praying must be done in the midst of turmoil, people, and problems!  I don’t think any one of us will be forced to have our quiet time as Paul did, accompanied by the clanking of chains!  It’s so easy for us – but we don’t do it!  People like Paul, prisoners for Christ, pray for us!  It’s time that free people pray for prisoners like Paul!

Do you ever say grace in a restaurant?  Do you say “Lord, we bow our heads in this public place in acknowledgement of whose we are and whom we serve”?  That’s body language that tells a powerful story!

PRAYER

Lord, I find myself searching for more ways to share Your truth verbally with others. I look for more and better words that can convince people of Your love and Your grace. Thank you for this lesson that sometimes I can share Your truth with my body language. I can witness by what I do – praying, studying Your Word, spending time serving You, and worshipping You. Thank You for all the ways I can proclaim You!   Amen.