“Persevering prayer”
“We fight with weapons that are different from those the world uses. Our weapons have power from God that can destroy the enemy’s strong places. We destroy people’s argument and every proud thing that raises itself against the knowledge of God. We capture every thought and make it give up and obey Christ.” 2 Cor. 10:4-5 ncv
The King James Version says: “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds” (2Cor. 10:4). Paul’s eighth weapon is “persevering prayer.”
The word, persevere means continue steadily in doing something hard; persist. The word, persist means continue firmly; refuse to stop; say again and again; maintain means keep on. Persevering emphasizes refusing to be discouraged by obstacles or difficulties, but continuing steadily with courage and patience. Example: Perseverance leads to success.
Paul shared that his suffering and persevering prayer came together (2 Cor. 11:23-30). As Paul was praying for his churches that he had planted, his heart was grieved with tears. During that time, the churches were going through rough times. Some of the people were trying to change the teachings of the gospel. Paul never gave up in continuing his prayer for others and for God to help him through all his suffering. Paul’s persevering prayer was mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds against Satan so he could spread the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Paul gave an example how to prepare us for the battle with the enemy. We may be familiar with Ephesians 6:10-18. This is part of persevering prayer. Paul’s example inspired us to understand the important part of suffering that comes with prayers. By using this weapon, “the persevering prayer,” against the enemy, we, the born-again believers will be able to see great things of God.
