Prayer is a worldwide ministry. God has proclaimed prayer to be the unceasing, unwavering occupation of all His faithful followers. “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Prayer should be as natural to the believer as breathing.

In the Holy Scriptures, the believer is exhorted to pray for “all” people, “all” in authority, “all” the saints and “all” of Israel (1 Timothy 2:1-2; Ephesians 6:18; Romans 10:1; 11:26). Truly, these “all” petitions are pertinent and important. Compassion and concern are generated when a Christian gives attention to others first in prayer and then in practice.

Jesus knew the importance of prayer in His life. He prayed before making decisions, before miraculous deeds and before monumental demonstrations of divinity (Luke 3:21; 5:16; 6:12; 9:18, 28; 22:32; 23:34, 46). With close communion with the Father, Jesus brought life, light and love to all who came in contact with Him. Many accepted Him, but many also rejected His words and ways.

Prayer must be habitual, healthy and honest before God in order for that “supernatural” lift to be activated in the daily life of the dedicated disciple. When Job was tested, he turned to God. When Daniel was challenged, He continued to call upon His God as always. When Habakkuk was confused, he cried out to God. How important it is for every believer to understand and utilize the privilege of prayer.

“All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Jesus “came Himself as a ransom for all” (1 Timothy 2:6), and “He died for all” (2 Corinthians 5:15). God “desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:4). “God is now declaring to men that all people everywhere should repent” (Acts 17:30). And God says to every disciple, “Go into all the world and preach the Gospel to all creation” (Mark 16:15).

May every worker of Slavic Missionary Service know the calmness, comfort and confidence that come when kneeling before God in prayer. Intercede for every SMS missionary that they will consult their God in all decisions, all circumstances and all situations. “Therefore let’s approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace for help at the time of our need” (Hebrews 4:16). And pray that God’s saints in the Slavic world will lead many souls to the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.