A Prayer for the Ephesians

¹⁴ For this reason I kneel^(A) before the Father, ¹⁵ from whom every family^[a] in heaven and on earth derives its name. ¹⁶ I pray that out of his glorious riches^(B) he may strengthen you with power^(C) through his Spirit in your inner being,^{(D) 17} so that Christ may dwell in your hearts^(E) through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted^(F) and established in love, ¹⁸ may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people,^(G) to grasp how wide and long and high and deep^(H) is the love of Christ, ¹⁹ and to know this love that surpasses knowledge^(I)—that you may be filled^(J) to the measure of all the fullness of God.^(K)

⁸ Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need^(A) before you ask him.

³² For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.^(A)

³⁰ For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father^(A) knows that you need them.^(B)

²³ In that day^(A) you will no longer ask me anything. Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.^{(B) 24} Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive,^(C) and your joy will be complete.^(D)

²⁵ “Though I have been speaking figuratively,^(E) a time is coming^(F) when I will no longer use this kind of language but will tell you plainly about my Father. ²⁶ In that day you will ask in my name.^(G) I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf. ²⁷ No, the Father himself loves you because you have loved me^(H) and have believed that I came from God.^(I)

¹⁸ And pray in the Spirit^(A) on all occasions^(B) with all kinds of prayers and requests.^(C) With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying^(D) for all the Lord’s people.

⁶ Do not be anxious about anything,^(A) but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.^(B)

Instructions on Worship

2 I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers,^(A) intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— ² for kings and all those in authority,^(B) that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness^(C) and holiness.