Editors note: the guest article appearing here does not necessarily reflect the views of Bible Rebel editors or other guest authors and contributors. Bible Rebel seeks to present a wide range of ideas and viewpoints in order to fulfill our mission to provide resources for “Curious Fearless Faith”. This is Part 2 in a new series on prayer called ‘Paul Prayed Without Ceasing’ by Steve Sann.
And, here we once again find another absolute: “without ceasing.” We can’t pray more consistently than “without ceasing,” now can we? This figure emphasizes that we are to have extreme loyalty and committed reliability to prayer. “Praying without ceasing” and “praying always” are traits not commonly found in the weak of will. But, it is a skill set each one of us can develop. God’s expectation is that each of us will do our best to SIT much. We can all—and should all—make every effort to live up to His will on this matter.
The same commitment to prayer which God requested of His Church, Paul personally demonstrated, serving the example for the Church:
Romans 1:9: For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers.
Here, Paul writes that he himself prays “without ceasing.” And he specifically describes how: by serving God in my spirit. How can I serve God “with my spirit”? The context determines if the phrase “my spirit” refers to the human soul life as in I Corinthians 16:18 and II Corinthians 2:13, or the gift of the holy spirit as in I Corinthians 14:14 and 5:4. The topic of this verse reveals it: it is by prayer. Certainly, serving God with the spirit would include prayer in the spirit for the saints, as well as the other manifestations.
At this same time, Paul makes an extraordinary pledge here: he swears before God that his words are true, and that he is committed to praying without ceasing for his people. Throughout scripture, on only five occasions did Paul call upon God as his witness of the authenticity of his words. This vow had significance. We hear no hollow, religious platitudes from him as often heard today, like, “I’ll pray for you, brother.” Paul didn’t just promise to pray; he made a pledge before God and the church that he was faithful in prayer. He became the example.
Paul was challenging the church, setting the bar high for the believers of that day. Repeatedly, they were exhorted to SIT much. Why? Because he was persuaded that a wealth of spiritual benefits was bestowed upon each individual believer who frequently exercised this spiritual power. What, then, are these riches which continue to inspire believers even today to speak in tongues much?
Steve Sann
Steve Sann is a writer and researcher passionate about biblical studies, theology, and historical analysis. His work explores prophecy, spiritual manifestations, and other scriptural mysteries with clarity, logic, and an unwavering dedication to accuracy. His research challenges conventional perspectives while remaining grounded in the time-tested principle that Scripture interprets itself.